Former Gwent Police officer sentenced for misconduct in public office

A former Gwent Police officer has been jailed for misconduct in public office, following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

Former Police Constable Paul Chadwick, 51, pleaded guilty to two charges at a hearing at Newport Crown Court in October. At Cardiff Crown Court today (Monday) a judge sentenced him to 18 months’ imprisonment.

He admitted to having entered into inappropriate relationships for periods in 2020, while a serving officer, with two women he met during the course of his duties, one between January and April, and another between dates in May last year.

The IOPC carried out two investigations following a referral from Gwent Police in May last year and a further referral in November 2020. At the end of our investigations, we referred a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service which authorised the charges.

IOPC Director for Wales, Catrin Evans said: “Cases where officers abuse their position for sexual purposes are among the most serious examples of corruption that we investigate and have real potential to impact on public confidence in the police.

“Regrettably, Paul Chadwick chose to abuse the position of trust placed in him and his actions have impacted heavily on two women, one of whom was in a highly vulnerable situation.

“I hope this outcome sends a clear message to any officer who misconduct themselves in such a way, that they face serious consequences and will be held to account.”

Mr Chadwick retired from Gwent Police in June 2021. It will now be for the force to take forward disciplinary proceedings against the former officer.

We would like to reiterate to police officers and staff, current or former, that we have a whistleblowing line for police officers and staff to report concerns of wrongdoing where they believe a criminal offence has been committed, or evidence of conduct that would justify disciplinary proceedings.

Members of the public can find out more about how to make a complaint about a police force on our website www.policeconduct.gov.uk.