A former Sussex Police officer kicked out for gross misconduct is now standing trial for rape, sexual assault, and a string of data misuse offences — all while still serving as a trustee for a UK charity.
Ex-Officer Faces Trial Over Shocking Charges
Christopher Kenneth Mallet, 40, remains listed as a trustee for South East Fire and Rescue (Charity No. 1196493) despite being under criminal investigation since 2019. He faces a full trial at Guildford Crown Court in March 2026.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has charged Mallet with:
- Two counts of rape
- One count of sexual assault
- Three counts of corrupt or improper exercise of police powers
- Five counts of unauthorised access to computer material
- Five counts of unlawful disclosure of personal data
- Five counts of unlawful retention of personal data
All alleged offences took place while Mallet was a serving constable in Horsham. They involve illegal access and misuse of sensitive police data related to women he encountered in his role.
Kicked Out of Force for Gross Misconduct
Mallet was dismissed from Sussex Police following a disciplinary panel on 12 December 2019. The panel found he had:
- Illegally accessed the Niche police database to obtain personal details
- Fraudulently claimed a new warrant card
- Attempted to sell Sussex Police property on eBay
- Provided misleading information during an anti-corruption investigation
The panel branded these serious breaches of honesty and integrity, publishing their findings in a public misconduct notice.
Police Vehicle Given While on Bail Sparks Outrage
A Freedom of Information request uncovered that Surrey Police handed Mallet a Ford Ranger vehicle while he was on bail for these grave charges. This move has sparked anger from governance watchdogs and the public, as Mallet was already dismissed and awaiting trial.
Still a Charity Trustee Amidst Criminal Storm
Despite facing multiple indictable offences, Mallet remains a trustee for South East Fire and Rescue, according to the Charity Commission for England and Wales. This raises serious questions about how the Charity Commission enforces its Fit and Proper Persons test, designed to ensure trustees meet required legal and ethical standards.
Calls for Urgent Review and Reform
Transparency campaigners and former policing professionals are demanding an immediate overhaul of trustee vetting, especially for those with law enforcement histories.
Legal experts say this case could prompt new legislative reforms targeting misconduct in public office and charity leadership accountability.
The IOPC continues its investigation, while the Charity Commission is under pressure to reconsider Mallet’s role given the ongoing criminal proceedings.
Speak Up if You Suspect Charity or Police Misconduct
- Charity Commission: www.gov.uk/charity-commission
- IOPC (Independent Office for Police Conduct): www.policeconduct.gov.uk
