Ex-PC Jailed for Sexual Assault in Pub Horror
Off-Duty Officer’s Shocking Behaviour
Former PC Paul Hinchcliffe, 46, was off duty and enjoying a drink at The Church House pub in Wath when things took a nasty turn. He made lewd, sexually suggestive comments towards a female victim. Not content with that, Hinchcliffe flicked beer foam from his pint at her chest before pulling down her top and snapping a photo.
Victim Leaves Distressed After Pub Incident
The ordeal left the woman so upset in October 2020 that she had to call a friend for a quick escape. Hinchcliffe, who served in police training, was convicted of sexual assault by a jury in January after a full trial. He resigned from the force afterwards.
Sentenced and Banned for Life
On Friday 31 March, Leeds Crown Court sentenced Hinchcliffe to eight months in prison. He has also been put on the Sex Offenders’ Register for 10 years. A misconduct hearing in February ruled his actions amounted to gross misconduct. Had he still been serving, Chief Constable Lauren Poultney stated he would have been sacked without notice. Now, Hinchcliffe is permanently barred from working in policing.
Chief Constable Vows No Tolerance for Misconduct
“This case shows that wrongdoing and poor standards will not be tolerated in South Yorkshire Police. Whether on duty or off, our officers must represent the true values of policing. This former officer fell far below those standards,” said Chief Constable Poultney.
She added that the incident was investigated by the Counter Corruption Unit, highlighting the force’s commitment to rooting out bad actors. “Force standards and culture remain my top priority. When poor behaviour is uncovered, those responsible will be dealt with swiftly and robustly.”
