Former police inspector convicted of sexually assaulting young men in police stations

Gerard Hutchings, a former police inspector in the Hampshire Constabulary, has been convicted of carrying out unlawful strip searches and sexually assaulting a number of young men in Hampshire police stations.   

The abuse took place between 1999 and 2007 and involved 18 young men who were in the police station to receive a caution or reprimand for minor offences.

He was convicted of 5 counts of indecent assault, 5 counts of causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent and misconduct in public office.  

He was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment on 24 July 2024.  

Anthony Johns, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: "Hutchings carried out a sustained abuse of power, using his position as a police inspector to target young men who were entitled to expect lawful and professional treatment.

"He exploited his authority to subject victims to humiliating and unjustified strip searches”.

It is understood that complaints were first made about him in 2007 and he was then dismissed from the police force. He was imprisoned on 11 counts of misconduct in a public office in 2008. 

The police then opened a new investigation in 2020 after a complaint was made in relation to further sexual abuse by him in 2005.  

Complaints of sexual misconduct by police officers have more than doubled over the last 5 years but research also confirms that 40% of sexual conduct complaints were not even investigated. 

It has long been recognised that sexual abuse by an adult against a child or young adult in breach of trust has an impact on their self-esteem, judgement and attitude towards authority. It understandably makes it difficult for the survivor of the abuse to come forward and report the abuse. Many of the survivors of his abuse would have been afraid that they would not be believed or that their minor offences would be used against them to discredit their allegations.   

Jordans solicitors are acting on behalf of other vulnerable teenagers and young adults whom it is alleged were sexually abused by those in a position of authority.  

Compensation is a small step towards taking control of your life and getting the justice you deserve.

We understand how difficult it can be for you to talk about the abuse you suffered during your childhood or young adult life. That’s why our specially trained child abuse solicitors work closely alongside psychologists and barristers to support you both emotionally and legally.

Justice for child abuse survivors should be accessible no matter how long ago it happened. That’s why we fought for a landmark change in the law, which allows an abuse claim to be brought before a court regardless of when it took place.

If you want to discuss the options that are open to you, please contact our specialist Abuse Team at Jordans Solicitors.