Sussex Cop Cleared of Corruption Charges After Dramatic Trial
A Sussex Police officer has been found not guilty of corruption at Canterbury Crown Court. PC Joseph Aylett, from Horsham, faced allegations of letting an assault suspect off the hook in Crawley back in 2022.
Accused of Letting Suspect Walk
PC Aylett, who lives on Blackbridge Lane in Horsham, was charged in August 2024. The charge stemmed from claims that he knowingly allowed a suspect involved in an assault to escape justice. The case was investigated by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), but PC Aylett always denied any wrongdoing.
After hearing the evidence, the jury delivered a clear not guilty verdict on Friday, clearing Aylett of the corruption charge.
Police and IOPC Eye Internal Action
Though the criminal trial ended in acquittal, Sussex Police confirmed internal misconduct proceedings will move forward. A force spokesperson said:
“Now the criminal investigation has concluded, the force will progress internal misconduct proceedings.”
IOPC Director Emily Barry added:
“We will be liaising with the force around disciplinary matters.”
What’s Next for PC Aylett?
Despite being cleared criminally, PC Aylett faces ongoing internal scrutiny. Sussex Police will assess his conduct under professional standards, while the IOPC continues working closely with them to decide if further action is needed.
The case highlights the fine line police officers walk and the continuing efforts to uphold accountability within the force.
