A former Metropolitan Police officer has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old boy after inviting him to a hotel room under the pretence of watching television and drinking alcohol.
Predatory Actions of a Cadet Leader
Grant Fulker, 32, from Surrey, was convicted by a jury at Southwark Crown Court on Friday, 9 January. The ex-Police Constable was found guilty of one count of sexual assault and one count of attempted sexual assault against the teenager.
The court heard how Fulker, who was a volunteer police cadet leader, exploited his position of trust. In February 2024, he purchased four bottles of wine and lured the victim to his hotel room to watch the TV show Love Island.
Once there, a drunken Fulker touched the young man and attempted to touch his penis over his clothing. The brave victim later informed his parents, leading to Fulker's arrest and charge within the same month.
Prior Admissions of Misconduct
Prior to this trial, Fulker had already admitted to three counts of misconduct in a public office. These charges related to inappropriate WhatsApp messages he sent to two boys while serving as a cadet leader for the Met's volunteer programme.
Fulker, who was formerly part of the force's Specialist Operations command, was dismissed from the Met in March 2024 following an accelerated misconduct hearing. He had indicated his intention to plead guilty to the misconduct charges.
The hearing found he had breached standards of professional behaviour concerning discreditable conduct and authority, respect, and courtesy at the level of gross misconduct.
Force Response and Safeguarding Review
Commander Pete Stevens of the Metropolitan Police condemned Fulker's "despicable" actions, stating he had "abused his position of trust as a cadet leader to take advantage of these boys in the most appalling way."
Stevens expressed gratitude to the victims for coming forward, which enabled a swift investigation. He confirmed that Fulker was dismissed without notice and placed on the College of Policing's barred list. This prohibits any future employment within policing bodies.
In response to the allegations, the Met has fully inspected all volunteer police cadet units across London. The force also recently restructured the cadet programme, reducing participant numbers, adjusting the age range, and modifying some activities to enhance safeguarding.
Grant Fulker is scheduled to be sentenced at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday, 27 February.
