KEVIN FORD FROM BRIDLINGTON, DRIFFIELD, AND HORNSEA JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Bridlington, Driffield, and Hornsea, Kevin Ford, a former police officer, has been sentenced to prison following his involvement in a serious sexual assault and possession of indecent images of children. The incident dates back to January 2011, when Ford, then a serving officer, committed a heinous act against an 11-year-old girl in Driffield.

Detectives investigating Ford's case uncovered a troubling collection of digital material on his computer, which included 270 indecent images of children. This discovery added a grave dimension to the charges against him, highlighting a pattern of disturbing behavior.

Kevin Ford, aged 57 at the time of sentencing, resided on Albert Terrace in Beverley. His career with Humberside Police spanned four decades, during which he served at various police stations across Beverley, Bridlington, and Hornsea. Despite his long service and recognition through commendations, his actions have now overshadowed his professional reputation.

Ford was arrested in October following the investigation and subsequently pleaded guilty to the charges. At Hull Crown Court, he was sentenced to 15 months in prison. Additionally, he was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for a period of ten years, a measure intended to monitor and prevent further offenses.

During the court proceedings, Ford admitted that he “derived pleasure” from viewing images of young women, a statement that underscores the severity of his misconduct. His legal representative, Mark Bury, expressed remorse on his behalf, stating, “He is only too well aware he has committed a gross breach of trust. He is palpably and bitterly ashamed of himself.”

Despite his previous commendations and his role in managing a crime unit, the court emphasized the seriousness of his crimes. Recorder Andrew Campbell QC made it clear that the judiciary must send a strong message to society, stating, “The courts have a public duty to reinforce this sort of conduct as so serious that nothing other than a custodial sentence can be passed upon you.”