EX-COP DUBBED 'SEXUAL SADIST' FACES UP TO 28 YEARS FOR HEINOUS ASSAULTS
A former police officer, Kevin Bentley, aged 69 and residing on Pearson Street, Spennymoor, has been sentenced for a series of sexual and physical assaults on women and a girl.Dubbed 'a sexual sadist,' Bentley was convicted of 24 serious sexual and physical assaults after an 11-day trial, following investigations stimulated by a report from one victim in 2018.
Despite being a police officer, Bentley attempted to use his position as 'a shield' to prevent victims from reporting his actions and described himself as being ‘Teflon,’ indicating he believed complaints would not stick.
The judge, James Adkin, emphasized Bentley's 'hubris' after he was aggressive toward a woman and even urged her to call the police.
Bentley's crimes spanned several years, and the investigation uncovered the full extent of his misconduct, following a meticulous three-year inquiry by Durham Police.
Bentley retired as a constable in 2006 and his offenses are unrelated to his police work.
He was sentenced at Durham Crown Court to an extended custodial term of up to 28 years, with at least 18.5 years to serve before parole eligibility, followed by six years on licence.
Additionally, lifelong restraining orders prevent him from contacting his victims.
His conviction aims to reflect the gravity of his abuse, and police officials expressed their commitment to supporting survivors and bringing offenders to justice.
Detective Constable David Hannan and Detective Chief Inspector Dave Cuthbert highlighted the importance of reporting abuse and assured that the force's standards remain high.
