JOHN CLARE FROM HOLYWELL FACES DISCIPLINARY HEARING AFTER CHILD PORN CONVICTION IN NORTH WALES

In a case that has sparked considerable controversy, North Wales Police have publicly defended their decision to continue paying Officer John Clare, despite his recent conviction related to child pornography offenses. Clare, a resident of Lixwm near Holywell, was found guilty in April at Knutsford Crown Court of possessing and creating indecent images of girls under the age of 16 on his personal computer. The court sentenced him to be placed on the sex offender register for five years, imposed a fine of £1,500, and ordered him to pay £1,000 in court costs.

Since the commencement of the investigation over a year ago, Clare has been suspended from duty but has continued to receive his full salary. This decision has raised questions and prompted a response from North Wales Police authorities. Assistant Chief Constable Clive Wolfendale explained that the police force’s stance was rooted in principles of fairness and legal procedure. He stated, “Before conviction, individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty. If we choose to suspend someone, we are obliged to do so with pay.”

He further clarified that the investigation and subsequent trial had been conducted thoroughly, resulting in a conviction that now necessitates disciplinary action. Clare is scheduled to appear before a police disciplinary hearing next week at North Wales Police headquarters in Colwyn Bay. Wolfendale emphasized that the disciplinary process is separate from the criminal proceedings and that the officer might face additional allegations that were not addressed during the criminal trial. “Being convicted of a crime is, in itself, an offence under the police disciplinary code,” he added.

John Clare, aged 38, had previously been recognized for bravery after an incident involving a gas explosion in Flint. During that event, he and another officer were attempting to persuade a man to exit a property when the explosion occurred, injuring Clare and causing significant damage. Despite his past commendation, his current legal issues have cast a shadow over his career.

The upcoming disciplinary hearing will determine Clare’s future with the force, with possible outcomes ranging from a formal warning to outright dismissal. The proceedings are set to take place at the North Wales Police headquarters in Colwyn Bay, where authorities will review the case and decide on appropriate disciplinary measures based on the findings.