Former police officer jailed for child sex offences

A former police officer has been jailed for making indecent images of children and trying to arrange to meet children for sex. 

Police Inspector John Nichols, 51, attached to Bedfordshire Police, was sentenced to 30 months' imprisonment at Inner London Crown Court today (Wednesday, 17 August 2022). The CPS also successfully applied for a 10-year sexual harm prevention order.

Nichols had previously pleaded guilty to one count of making indecent images of children and attempting to arrange the commission of a child sex offence. He also sent pictures of his own genitalia.

An investigation found 39 category C images on Nichols’ devices.

Louise Clissold, from the CPS, said: “As a serving police officer it is hugely concerning that such sexually explicit messaging and indecent images of children were found on John Nichols’ phone.

“Although no sexual activity is known to have taken place, Nichols’ actions were vile and a grave abuse of trust.

“Sexual offences against children are abhorrent and the CPS is committed to prosecuting all offenders.”