Former West Yorkshire Police officer guilty of misconduct after relationship with victim
The 33 year old had denied three counts of misconduct in public office - and has now been found guilty of two.
A former West Yorkshire Police officer has been convicted of misconduct in public office, after starting a relationship with an alleged victim of domestic abuse.
Former PC Declan Middleton, 33, had denied three counts of misconduct in public office between May 2020 and January 2021 but was found guilty on two counts by a jury at Leeds Crown Court yesterday (October 23).
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) opened an investigation after a complaint from a woman in January 2021.
Middleton was found to have visited the woman's home in May 2020 to obtain a witness statement, later giving her his personal phone number,
PC Middleton returned to the woman's home two days later and they had consensual sex.
He continued to message the victim in the week after and later sent messages to ask she did not talk about the relationship to anyone.
IOPC Regional Director Emily Barry said: “PC Middleton’s predatory behaviour was unacceptable and has no place in policing."
"The fact he tried to cover his tracks was evidence that he knew what he was doing was wrong. This abuse of trust seriously risked undermining public confidence in the police.
“It was thanks to the courage of the complainant in coming forward that we were able to carry out this investigation and identify this disturbing pattern of behaviour.
"I would like to thank all those who assisted with our enquiries and helped ensure PC Middleton was held accountable.
“The verdict today should provide a clear message that any officer who misconducts themselves in such a way can and will face serious consequences for their actions.”
Middleton is due to be sentenced on November 22.