Ex-Cop Caught Sending Sexual Messages to Child
Former officer DC Scott Burton has been slammed after sending inappropriate and sexualised messages to a child while off-duty.
Police Launch Immediate Investigation
The abuse came to light in June 2021, when a third party tipped off Avon and Somerset Police. A swift investigation was launched.
By March 2022, Burton faced charges of sexual communication with a child under 16 and appeared in court.
Caution, Register, and Ban from Police Work
Following advice from the Crown Prosecution Service, Burton received a police caution in September and must now stay on the Sex Offenders’ Register for two years.
He resigned before today’s accelerated misconduct hearing chaired by Chief Constable Sarah Crew. The Chief made it clear Burton would have been dismissed and confirmed he’s barred from police and law enforcement jobs nationwide.
Chief Constable Makes Strong Statement
“Any criminal offence is serious when the perpetrator is a police officer, however a sexual offence must be of the utmost gravity,” Chief Constable Crew said.
She added the offence shatters public trust and tarnishes the entire policing profession, whether on or off duty.
“The psychological harm and emotional distress caused to the victim and their family is deeply upsetting. Such actions undermine public confidence in the police service,” she said.
Police Promise to Root Out Wrongdoers
Supt Jane Wigmore, Head of Professional Standards, stated:
“During court proceedings, Burton admitted sending sexualised messages to a child. The contact was unrelated to his police role.”
“This abuse is abhorrent and utterly incompatible with policing.”
She stressed the impact on the victim, their family, and on colleagues who were unaware until the investigation began.
“Our work continues to weed out officers and staff who fall below the high standards expected, betraying both colleagues and the public we serve.”
