A former Devon & Cornwall Police officer, James Stillman, 32, of Chard, was sentenced to two years and four months in prison at Bristol Crown Court on 19 June 2026. Stillman pleaded guilty to three separate charges of Misconduct in Public Office involving the sexual abuse of vulnerable women while on duty in 2025.
His actions were investigated by police, leading to his arrest, suspension, and eventual resignation from the force.
Abuse Of Trust
Stillman’s offences included sexually abusing a vulnerable female after responding to her home to take a statement about an assault on 1 September 2025. Although he initially denied any sexual contact during police interviews, he later admitted to having intercourse while on duty, violating the trust placed in him as a police officer.
Targeting Vulnerable Victims
In a separate case, Stillman engaged in inappropriate sexual messaging and touching of a vulnerable teenage girl whom he met through his police duties. Both victims showed courage by reporting the abuse, enabling a full investigation and prosecution.
Swift Police Action
Following reports to the police, Stillman was immediately arrested and suspended. He faced an Accelerated Misconduct Hearing before resigning from the force. Prior to his service with Devon & Cornwall Police, he had also served as a Special Constable with Avon and Somerset Constabulary.
Police Response
Assistant Chief Constable Glen Mayhew stated, “James Stillman abused his position of power and authority to target vulnerable victims. This behaviour is totally unacceptable and undermines the professional standards we uphold. We are committed to supporting victims of violence against women and girls and ensuring the highest levels of ethics within the force.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
