Ex-Kent Cop Jailed for Preying on Grieving Victim
Ian Mynott, a retired Kent Police officer, has been sentenced to 21 months behind bars for abusing his position to exploit a vulnerable bereaved woman.
Officer Turned Family Liaison – Then Predator
Back in 2001, 42-year-old Mynott was assigned as a Family Liaison Officer after a tragic road traffic death. He soon began an inappropriate relationship with a 21-year-old relative of the deceased.
Evidence from emails and diaries revealed how Mynott, who was married at the time, arranged secret meetings. He pressured the victim to lie about their relationship and exerted controlling, abusive behaviour towards her.
Relationship Continues Under False Pretences
Even after the inquest closed and police contact usually ends, Mynott carried on seeing the victim claiming it was work-related. The woman ended things in 2003 but later discovered he had also been involved with another family member.
She reported the misconduct to police in 2018, triggering an investigation.
Justice Served – Cop Arrested and Jailed
Mynott, 64, who retired in 2007, was arrested at his Cheshire home in March 2019. He pled guilty to misconduct in a public office at Maidstone Crown Court in September 2022.
Judge handed down a 21-month custodial sentence on 9 December 2022.
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Talboys said: “The overwhelming evidence showed Mynott abused his position by forming sexual relationships with vulnerable, grieving victims.
“The public rightly expects the highest standards of professionalism from police officers. The vast majority of Kent Police officers serve with the utmost integrity.
“We take all wrongdoing seriously, no matter when it happened or who is involved.”
