Officer from Ipswich Ryan Althorpe 'abused trust' of victim

Ryan Althorpe, 33, of Meadow Crescent, Ipswich, was jailed for 10 months at a hearing at Ipswich Crown Court on Wednesday. 

He was found guilty of two misconduct offences, between November 16 and December 3, 2020, following a five-day trial earlier this year. 

The charges were attempting to engage a female into sexually inappropriate conversation with a view to engaging in sexual activity with that person and wilful neglect to record her disclosure of a non-recent rape allegation.

Deputy Chief Constable at Suffolk police Rob Jones said Althorpe's actions were a "flagrant abuse of trust".

He added: "The victim was vulnerable and quite rightly reached out for help and support. He held a position of trust that he completely exploited.

Suffolk police's Deputy Chief Constable Rob Jones (Image: Suffolk police)

“Public confidence in the police depends on those serving with us demonstrating the highest level of personal standards and professional behaviour and the force will thoroughly investigate any allegations of criminal conduct by its employees.

"All reports of sexual offences are taken extremely seriously and will be dealt with care and sensitivity by police who provide a professional, supportive and empathetic service.

"The welfare of the victim is of the utmost importance and support is offered at all stages to ensure their needs are met and that the appropriate services are provided.”

The court heard how Althorpe, who was based at Woodbridge in the Safer Neighbourhood Team, repeatedly requested video calls, phone calls and photograph exchanges from the victim. 

Althorpe was suspended from all duties and operational duties as a police officer in September 2021 once the allegations came to light and he resigned from his role as a police officer in June 2022.

He also failed to record the victim’s report of rape that took place in November 2019 - the second misconduct in a public office charge he was facing.