Allegations of serious sexual misconduct found proven against former inspector

Allegations of serious sexual misconduct have been found proven against a former Derbyshire Constabulary inspector following a misconduct hearing.

The hearing, which took place at the force headquarters between 1st and 5th June, heard how former inspector Richard Booth had used his position of authority within the force to commit serious sexual offences.

The first took place in the late 2000s when he was a sergeant – and saw a consensual sexual act take place between him and a junior member of staff.

The second complainant reported that, in the early 2010s, when he had risen to the rank of inspector, an oral rape had occurred.

Both incidents took place on duty.

A criminal investigation into the oral rape allegation began in September 2023, with no further action taken due to evidential difficulties in the case.

It was, however, deemed suitable to go to a gross misconduct hearing, where the two complainants were granted anonymity and gave evidence in person to the panel chaired by Assistant Chief Constable Diane Coulson.

Following the hearing, the panel found that both incidents took place and that gross misconduct had taken place.

Had Mr Booth not retired from the force while under investigation – a process allowed under misconduct regulations – the panel decided that he would have been dismissed without notice.

The full outcome of the hearing can be read here: Public Notice of Misconduct Outcome – Former Insp. Richard Booth | Derbyshire Constabulary

Temporary Deputy Chief Constable Michelle Shooter, said: “The behaviour of Richard Booth betrayed the oath he made as a police officer.

“He used his position of power – as a sergeant and as an inspector – to target colleagues who were significantly junior to him and carried this out while on duty.

“The evidence put before the hearing, including the first-hand testimony of the two complainants, made it clear that the gross misconduct was found proven.

“Officers who abuse their position of trust, either with members of the public or with colleagues, have no place in policing and we will do all we can to root them out and ensure that there is no safe haven for them.”