A West Yorkshire Police officer has been found guilty of raping a woman and committing sexual assault before joining the force, authorities have confirmed.
PC Benjamin Bottomley, formerly based in the Kirklees policing district, was suspended from duty in June 2023 after the victim bravely came forward.
Following a trial at Sheffield Crown Court, Bottomley was convicted of:
- Rape of a woman
- Sexual assault against the same woman, which took place while he was a student officer
Police Response
A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said:
As soon as the allegations were reported, PC Bottomley was immediately suspended, and an investigation was launched. We recognise the courage of the victim in coming forward to report these serious offences.”
The force has emphasized that Bottomley’s actions are “completely at odds” with the values expected of police officers and that misconduct proceedings will now follow his criminal conviction.
Assistant Chief Constable Catherine Hankinson added:
“This individual’s actions betray the public trust placed in our officers. We are determined to root out anyone who does not uphold the highest standards of behaviour. There is absolutely no place for individuals like this in policing.”
Misconduct Proceedings
Following the criminal case, West Yorkshire Police will begin fast-tracked misconduct proceedings, with the expectation that Bottomley will be dismissed from the force. The case has also been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
Wider Context
The conviction comes at a time of heightened public scrutiny on police conduct nationwide, particularly concerning crimes against women and girls. Forces across the UK have vowed to improve vetting, standards, and transparency to rebuild public trust.
Bottomley has been remanded into custody pending sentencing. A date for sentencing is expected to be announced shortly.
