Former Durham Constabulary inspector Richard Wilson, 40, was found to have committed gross misconduct after making obscene comments about a child's underwear during an online sting. He was sentenced to 22 months suspended for two years at Newcastle Crown Court earlier this month after admitting publishing obscene messages and failing to disclose access to a mobile device. He also received a six-month alcohol treatment requirement.
Misconduct hearing outcome
An Accelerated Misconduct Hearing led by Chief Constable Rachel Bacon concluded that Wilson would have been dismissed if still serving. He resigned on June 16 following the court hearing and did not attend the June 24 hearing. The hearing ruled he brought shame and disgrace on himself and the force and placed him on the police barring list.
Details of the offences
Wilson was arrested in March 2023 after sending obscene messages about young girls to an undercover officer on two social media platforms. Messages included references to smelling a girl's underwear and a message reading: "Horny as f. Looking st [at] mates dau [daughter] on insta." The offences were not committed while on duty, and he was immediately suspended.
During the investigation by Northumbria Police, Wilson repeatedly failed to provide his mobile phone passcode. His solicitor claimed he could not recall the password due to "memory loss/brain fog," but no medical evidence was provided.
Chief Constable's condemnation
Chief Constable Rachel Bacon stated: "He has brought shame and disgrace on himself and the Force. He has acted wholly contrary to the standards expected of any officer and of any right-minded member of the public." She described his conduct as "intentional, deliberate, targeted and planned" and showing "an abhorrent approach to young girls" and a "warped attitude." She concluded: "I have no hesitation in concluding that this conduct is Gross Misconduct. It is wholly unacceptable for a police officer to act in this manner. Police officers should be rooting out this kind of behaviour not involving themselves in it."
