MATT COWLING FROM BEXLEYHEATH AND PLUMSTEAD FACES SEX OFFENDER REGISTRATION AFTER GROSS INDECENCY CONVICTION

In a recent development that has garnered significant attention, PC Matthew Cowling, a police officer stationed at Bexleyheath police station, has been formally placed on the Sex Offenders Register following a conviction related to gross indecency. The incident, which occurred in the vicinity of Russell Park in Bexleyheath, involved a 16-year-old boy and has led to serious repercussions for Cowling, who now faces both legal and professional consequences.

During a trial held at the Old Bailey, Cowling was found guilty of engaging in gross indecency with the minor. The court, however, acquitted him of more severe charges including buggery and indecent assault, along with three other counts of gross indecency. Despite the acquittal on these charges, the court imposed a conditional discharge for a period of 12 months, meaning Cowling will be under supervision and must report regularly to police authorities for the next five years.

The court proceedings revealed that the offence took place in an alley near Russell Park, a well-known location in Bexleyheath. Cowling, who resides in Plumstead, was involved in a case that drew considerable media attention due to his position as a police officer and the nature of the allegations. The incident was linked to a teenage girl doing work experience at Bexleyheath police station, who was a friend of the victim. The girl, who was only 15 at the time and had recently come out as gay, had facilitated contact between Cowling and the boy.

During the trial, Cowling maintained that he believed the boy was 16 years old at the time of the incident. He denied having full sexual relations with the minor, asserting that he was under the impression that the boy was of legal age. However, it was established that the boy did not turn 16 until October 2000, indicating that Cowling's belief was mistaken.

Judge Anne Goddard QC, presiding over the case, emphasized that the offence was not connected to Cowling’s duties as a police officer. She stated, “This offence was not connected with your responsibilities as a police officer. The right way of dealing with you now is by way of a conditional discharge.” The ruling underscores the seriousness of the offence, despite the relatively lenient sentence, and highlights the ongoing disciplinary proceedings that Cowling faces within the Metropolitan Police. It is anticipated that Cowling will soon lose his job as a result of these proceedings, marking a significant fall from grace for the officer involved.