A Kent Police sergeant, Clive Garton from Sittingbourne, has been deprived of his title following his conviction for rape and stalking charges. The 56-year-old assaulted his victim notwithstanding her persistent pleas for him to cease, the court was informed.
Clive Garton, 56, from Sittingbourne, served as a sergeant in the police force for 23 years.
In June, he received a 16-year prison sentence after being convicted of the offences earlier that month.
Clive Garton was additionally convicted of obstructing the administration of justice.
In May, Lewes Crown Court was informed that the active police officer confronted his victim as she was seated on the stairs and subsequently raped her.
Throughout the ordeal, she had persistently implored him to cease.
Upon interrogation by authorities, the victim recounted her experience of prolonged stalking and coercive conduct perpetrated by Clive Garton.
He monitored her cell phone to ascertain her location at all times.
During the trial, the jury was informed that Clive Garton had endeavoured to monitor the victim’s mobile phone while he was on bail for the charges against her.
Clive Garton asserted that the victim had consented to engage in sexual activity with him, however acknowledged installing the surveillance devices in her residence.
During the questioning, he informed the officers that he could access the gadgets and eavesdrop on the victim.
“We embody a force in which the public should place their trust.”
Following a special case hearing at the Kent Police Headquarters on Sutton Road, Maidstone, today (November 12), Chief Constable Alan Pugshley revoked Clive Garton’s title.
The panel was informed of an allegation from October 2016, asserting that Clive Garton had raped a lady and attempted to dissuade her from contacting the police.
They also learnt about his prior harassment of the woman and the installation of listening devices in her residence.
Following the hearing, Superintendent Nick Gossett stated: “The overwhelming majority of Kent Police officers conduct themselves with the highest integrity and embody a force in which the public should have confidence.”
In this uncommon occurrence, an officer has been convicted of significant charges, and the police promptly proceeded with an arrest and the construction of a case against him.
“No leniency is afforded when misconduct is reported against officers.” The Professional Standards Department will undertake a comprehensive investigation and disclose their results in an open and transparent manner to ensure public confidence in the police service.
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