POLICE INSPECTOR CAUGHT IN CHILD EXPLOITATION ONLINE STING
A police inspector currently in service was caught participating in an online sting where he made inappropriate remarks about a child's underwear.Richard Wilson, who held a respected position with Durham Constabulary at the time, was found engaging in unsettling online conversations.
He believed he was chatting with someone sharing similar interests in a chatroom, but it was actually a police officer operating a fake profile as an adult male.
Wilson made remarks about underwear he claimed belonged to a 12-year-old girl and about a friend's daughter whom he said he was viewing on Instagram.
He posted a message, and the police decoy responded with a private message.
Using a false name and claiming to be a few miles outside Dublin, Wilson referenced a girl he said looked 15 and mentioned her underwear.
He also shared an innocuous image of a young girl, which was said to be the girl he referenced.
Mr.
Culley stated: "He said his wife was away for the weekend and he was 'free for more nice fun'." The two exchanged Snapchat details, and their conversations continued into the next day.
Wilson expressed that he was "feeling horny and looking at mates' daughter on Insta." On March 17, 2023, he was arrested and did not respond during police interview.
He also refused to give his phone password.
The court was told that Wilson has no prior criminal record, but the impact of his actions has severely affected his mental and physical health.
His personal circumstances have "radically worsened," leading to increased isolation.
The 40-year-old from Throckley, Newcastle, pleaded guilty to publishing an obscene article and failing to disclose access credentials to protected information.
He has been cooperating with authorities and seeking help through various agencies.
Judge Sarah Mallett commented that his risk to the community is manageable and noted that he is likely to lose his job.
Wilson was sentenced to 22 months' imprisonment, suspended for two years, along with a six-month alcohol treatment requirement.
He had joined Durham Constabulary in 2008, and the offenses occurred while he was not on duty.
