Police Officer Guilty Child Sex Crimes Investigation Reveals Disturbing Pattern
A senior police officer’s fall from grace has sent shockwaves through law enforcement circles as Inspector Thomas Kettleborough, 35, pleaded guilty to multiple child sex offences at Exeter Crown Court.
Comprehensive Investigation Uncovers Extent of Police Officer’s Child Sex Crimes
The South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU) led the investigation that revealed disturbing evidence spanning several years. According to court documents and official statements, Kettleborough’s offences include attempting to arrange child sex offences and possessing indecent images of children.
Detailed Breakdown of Criminal Charges
The former Avon and Somerset Police Inspector admitted to multiple serious offences, including:
Primary Offences
- Arranging/facilitating commission of child sex offence
- Attempted sexual communication with a child
- Attempting to incite a child into sexual activity
Additional Charges
- Engaging in sexual communication with a child
- Possession and creation of indecent images
For more information about child protection measures, visit the NSPCC website
Timeline of Events and Investigation
The Sentinel Current has learned that Kettleborough’s criminal activities dated from April 2019 to July 2023. The investigation intensified after his arrest in July 2023, when he attempted to meet someone he believed to be a child.
Detective Inspector David Wells from SWROCU provided crucial insights into the investigation’s scope. For additional information about online safety, visit Internet Matters [www.internetmatters.org].
Impact on Police
Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall emphasized the gravity of these offences and their impact on public trust. The police force has implemented immediate measures to ensure such incidents are prevented in the future.
Professional Consequences and Future Proceedings
Kettleborough faces sentencing at Exeter Crown Court on March 13, with an internal misconduct investigation running parallel to criminal proceedings. Learn more about police conduct standards at the Independent Office for Police Conduct website [www.policeconduct.gov.uk].
