DAVID RODLEY, SIDCUP POLICE OFFICER, SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN GREENWICH

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, David Rodley, a police officer from Sidcup, was convicted and sentenced for a series of heinous child sex offences. The offences took place between August and November 2017 and involved three young victims aged between 14 and 15 years old.

Rodley, who resided on Ashcroft Avenue in Sidcup, pleaded guilty to multiple charges that included two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor, three counts of attempting to coerce a child into watching a sexual act, four counts of communicating sexually explicit material with a minor, and three counts of attempting to facilitate the taking of indecent images of a child. These allegations paint a disturbing picture of abuse carried out by someone entrusted with public safety.

At the time of his arrest, Rodley was serving as a Metropolitan Police special constable based in Greenwich. His arrest was carried out by the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU), which uncovered not only his involvement in these serious offences but also found him in possession of illegal drugs, including MDMA, cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin. Additionally, authorities discovered that he possessed a bladed article, resisted arrest, and attempted to obstruct justice, further compounding his criminal charges.

The court proceedings culminated in a sentencing at Oxford Crown Court on September 13. Rodley was sentenced to nine years in prison for his crimes. Furthermore, he was given an extended licence period of five years, which means he will be subject to supervision and restrictions beyond his prison term. As part of the court's measures to prevent future harm, Rodley was also issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which will remain in effect indefinitely, restricting his activities and contact with minors.

This case highlights the grave breach of trust and the serious consequences faced by those who abuse their positions of authority. The community in Greenwich and Sidcup will undoubtedly be affected by the revelations of Rodley's actions, and the legal proceedings serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and accountability within law enforcement agencies.