SOMERSET POLICE OFFICER JAMES GULLIS CHARGED WITH CHILD INDECENCY IMAGES AND EXTREME PORNOGRAPHY

A serving police officer from Somerset, identified as James Gullis, aged 28, is scheduled to appear in court after being formally charged with multiple serious offences related to the possession and creation of indecent images of children. Gullis, who is employed as a police constable within east Somerset, was taken into custody in December 2023 following an extensive investigation initiated by the National Crime Agency. The inquiry was prompted by information received from the NCA, which led to his arrest and subsequent suspension from duty, reflecting the gravity of the allegations against him.

Gullis is expected to face his initial court appearance at Exeter Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, 19 February 2025. The charges he faces are particularly severe and include making indecent images of children in categories A, B, and C, as well as possession of prohibited images of children. Additionally, he is accused of possessing extreme pornography, a charge that underscores the disturbing nature of the allegations.

The investigation into Gullis's conduct is ongoing, with the Professional Standards Department of the police force also conducting a parallel inquiry into potential breaches of professional standards. This internal review aims to determine whether his actions violated the ethical and professional codes expected of law enforcement officers, and it will proceed alongside the criminal proceedings.

Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall issued a statement emphasizing the importance of public trust in policing. She said, “Policing must have the trust and confidence of the public, and we have made it clear that where our standards are not met by officers or staff, we will take decisive action. As we do in any instance where criminal allegations have been made, a thorough investigation has been carried out with the evidence passed to the Crown Prosecution Service which authorized these charges. The vast majority of our officers and staff are entirely dedicated to serving the communities of Avon and Somerset and work tirelessly to keep people safe.”

Gullis’s case has sent shockwaves through the local community, raising concerns about the conduct of law enforcement personnel and the measures in place to prevent such misconduct. As the legal process unfolds, the public awaits further developments regarding the case and the steps taken to ensure accountability within the police force.