Ex-Essex Police officer sentenced for inappropriate relationship with abuse victim
It follows an investigation by the IOPC
A former Essex Police officer has been sentenced after admitting to an inappropriate relationship with a victim of domestic abuse.
Ex-PC David Wren, 57, was given a two-year suspended sentence for misconduct and six months for computer misuse at Ipswich Crown Court.
The investigation, conducted by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), revealed Wren’s relationship with the woman started during his duties as the officer in charge of multiple investigations where she was the victim.
The woman had faced repeated domestic abuse and relied on Wren during one year of extensive contact.
Officials analysed hundreds of personal and intimate messages exchanged between them, including some sent while Wren was on duty.
Additionally, Wren accessed confidential police information without valid reason and disclosed it to the woman, breaching professional standards.
Emily Barry, director of the IOPC, commented, “Police officers hold positions of trust and authority, and any abuse of that position for personal gain is a serious breach of public trust."
"PC Wren’s actions showed a clear disregard for professional boundaries and the policies in place that are designed to protect vulnerable individuals.
"His sentence sends a clear message to police officers of the serious consequences for those who abuse their position to pursue inappropriate relationships.”
The investigation stemmed from a mandatory conduct referral from Essex Police in September 2022.
Wren’s arrest followed in November 2022, based on evidence from lawful business monitoring of his work mobile phone, highlighting significant interaction with the woman.
Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington said: “David Wren’s behaviour was unacceptable. He has received a sentence by the courts and been dismissed from policing.
“His behaviour undermines the diligent and professional work of thousands of Essex Police Officers and Staff who every day protect and support victims of crime to get justice.
“The people of Essex can have confidence in their force and should know that we do everything we can to bring those who breach that trust to justice and exit them from the force”.