MET DETECTIVE JAILED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES
A former detective from Plymouth, who specialized in child abuse investigations, has been sentenced to prison for heinous crimes involving a young girl and the creation of disturbing indecent images.Detective Constable Chris Maitland, residing on Widey View in Plymouth, pleaded guilty to multiple serious charges, including two counts of sexually assaulting a girl under the age of 13.
In addition, he admitted to producing and possessing a total of twelve indecent images depicting minors.
His sentencing took place at Southwark Crown Court, where he was handed a prison term of five years and four months.
Maitland’s role within the Metropolitan Police was within the specialized units focusing on sexual offences, exploitation, and child abuse cases.
The investigation into Maitland’s activities began when he was initially detained on November 22 of the previous year.
Authorities suspected him of possessing and distributing illegal images of children.
The case took a further turn when he was re-arrested on March 15, this time on suspicion of engaging in sexual contact with a minor.
Subsequently, he was formally charged with these offenses.
According to Scotland Yard, Maitland was off duty at the time of the offenses, and he has been suspended from his duties pending the outcome of the case.
During the court proceedings, Judge Nicholas Loraine-Smith described the material found on Maitland’s computer as “pretty gruesome,” emphasising the disturbing nature of the evidence.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the severity of the crimes and Maitland’s position as a law enforcement officer involved in child protection work.
