A police inspector from Newcastle was caught in an online sting after making vile comments about the underwear of a 12-year-old child. Inspector Richard Wilson was serving with Durham Constabulary when he engaged in the sickening chat, which was part of a police operation targeting online child sexual exploitation.
The Sting Operation
Wilson was caught by a decoy police officer posing as an adult man with an unhealthy interest in children on the Kik platform in February 2023. The court heard that Wilson, using a fake name and claiming to be near Dublin, made reference to a 12-year-old girl who he said looked 15. He mentioned her underwear and shared a non-indecent image of a female child, claiming it was the girl he referred to. He sent a message saying she had a skimpy thong under there and later said he was free for more fun while his wife was away.
Further Communications
Wilson exchanged Snapchat details with the decoy and continued the conversation the next day, stating he was feeling horny and looking at a friend's daughter on Instagram. He was arrested on March 17, 2023, and gave no comment in interview. He later failed to provide the password to his phone.
Court Proceedings
At Newcastle Crown Court, prosecutor Joe Culley said the chat might have encouraged a sexual interest in teenage children. Wilson, 40, of Throckley, Newcastle, pleaded guilty to publishing an obscene article and failing to disclose a key to protected information. His defense lawyer, Andrew Walker, acknowledged the grossly offensive subject matter but noted it was a short conversation. Wilson spent three months in a mental health facility and has a mental disorder.
Sentencing
Judge Sarah Mallett said Wilson's risk is manageable in the community and that he is likely to lose his job. He was sentenced to 22 months suspended for two years with a six-month alcohol treatment requirement. Wilson joined Durham Constabulary in 2008 and committed the offenses while off duty.
Police Response
Assistant Chief Constable Jon McAdam stated that Wilson was immediately suspended and will face an Accelerated Gross Misconduct Hearing later this month. He emphasized that the public expects the highest professional standards from the police.
