POLICE OFFICER JAILED FOR RAPING WOMAN WHILE OFF DUTY
A police officer who committed rape while off-duty has been sentenced to five years in prison.Ben Bottomley, a 23-year-old former officer with West Yorkshire Police, was convicted of both rape and sexual assault following a trial at Sheffield Crown Court.
The crimes took place before Bottomley joined the police force, and he also sexually assaulted the woman while he was still a student officer.
These allegations were reported to authorities after his employment commenced.
On Wednesday, he received a sentence of four years for rape and one year for sexual assault by penetration, to be served simultaneously.
Additionally, Bottomley will be required to register as a sex offender for life.
The West Yorkshire Police's Professional Standards Directorate led an investigation that resulted in his conviction, and he was immediately suspended from duty.
A misconduct hearing is scheduled for next month, where he may face a ban from policing.
In April, following his conviction, Detective Chief Superintendent Tanya Wilkins stated: “These were extremely serious allegations to be made against a serving police officer and he was immediately suspended from duty when the investigation commenced in June 2023.
“The victim has shown immense courage in coming forward to report these offences.
We do not underestimate how hard it is to report such offending in any circumstances but understand that there may also be additional concerns when the perpetrator works in policing.
“I hope the investigation and subsequent prosecution show that police and partners will take action, regardless of the occupation of the offender.
“We are committed to protecting women from violence and sexual violence.
PC Bottomley has demonstrated a disregard for the victim’s right to consent and, in addition to any custodial sentence he is given, he will now be subject to extra conditions on him as a convicted sex offender.”
