Cop Caught in Sick Online Chat Sting
PS James Chatfield, a London-based officer, has been sacked after trying to sext what he believed was a 12-year-old girl. The disturbing case unfolded during a hearing at Force Headquarters on Monday, January 9.
Twisted Conversations Uncovered
Back in September 2022, Chatfield pretended to be a 17-year-old boy and started messaging someone he thought was a young girl. He repeatedly asked about her bra size, breasts, and even demanded photos. He went as far as asking how “cute her bum is” and if he could visit her to “feel it.” When he requested she wear something revealing, he was speaking to an undercover South Wales Police officer.
Fast Police Action and Court Sentence
The officer immediately tipped off British Transport Police’s Professional Standards Department. Chatfield was swiftly arrested and questioned. On November 18, he pleaded guilty to two counts of trying to engage in sexual communication with a child at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
On December 14, the Inner London Crown Court handed down a six-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, plus a seven-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
BTP Chief Takes a Hard Line
Following the criminal probe, Chatfield faced an accelerated misconduct hearing. The Chief Constable wasted no time in dismissing him for gross misconduct.
“He was trusted to uphold the law and protect the public, especially the most vulnerable,” said Chief Constable Lucy D’Orsi. “His actions are disgraceful and completely contrary to our values.
“My decision to dismiss James Chatfield with immediate effect reflects the seriousness with which we view predatory behaviour, specifically sexual misconduct. People like him have no place in British Transport Police.”
