Kettering police officer convicted of sexual assault
PC Gareth Middleton faces sentencing on 19th December
A police officer, based in Kettering, has been found guilty of sexually assaulting two women, at a house party in Wellingborough.
PC Gareth Middleton attended the party on 27th August 2021, during which he sexually assaulted one woman while they were sitting on a sofa. Feeling unsafe, the woman left the area and reported the incident to Northamptonshire Police.
While investigating the case, officers were approached by another woman who stated she had also been assaulted by PC Middleton at the same party. The second offence was documented in a video captured by the woman’s boyfriend, showing Middleton lifting her up and placing one hand on her chest after she had told him to "do one."
PC Middleton was suspended, and charges were brought against him. after a four-day trial at Leicester Crown Court, he was found guilty by a jury on two charges of sexual assault. He is scheduled to be sentenced at Leicester Crown Court on 19th December.
Detective Chief Inspector Liz Basham thanked the victims, saying: “Firstly, I’d like to thank the two women in this case for their support throughout our investigation.
“They have shown immense bravery, patience and resilience, and I am grateful to them for putting their trust in us by reporting these offences and allowing us to root out this bad apple from our organisation.
“Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for Northamptonshire Police. Women should feel safe to go out and attend parties without fearing that they will be sexually assaulted and we will always do everything we can to protect that right, without fear or favour.”
Northamptonshire Police will now begin accelerated gross misconduct proceedings against PC Middleton.