A former police officer who swapped his warrant card for a vicar's collar has been jailed for sexually assaulting a vulnerable woman during a pastoral visit.
David Houston, 58, was sentenced to 16 months in prison at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court after being found guilty of assaulting the woman at her home in February 2022. The court heard how Houston, then a vicar at St John's Church in Wetley Rocks, Staffordshire, abused his position of trust.
The victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was described as particularly vulnerable. Houston had visited her home under the guise of providing spiritual support, before committing the assault.
Prosecutor Hilary Banks detailed how the incident had left the woman feeling "shocked, upset, and violated". The victim subsequently reported the crime, leading to Houston's arrest and prosecution.
In a shocking twist, it was revealed that Houston had a previous career in law enforcement. He served as a police officer with Staffordshire Police before being ordained into the Church of England.
Judge David Fletcher condemned Houston's actions, stating he had "abused the trust placed in him by both the victim and the church". The judge emphasised the severity of a religious figure exploiting someone in a vulnerable state.
Houston was found guilty of one count of sexual assault following a trial. In addition to his prison sentence, he was placed on the Sex Offenders Register for ten years and made subject to a restraining order.
The Church of England confirmed that Houston is now prohibited from any ministerial work following the conviction. A spokesperson expressed deep regret over the incident and confirmed support was being offered to the victim.
