Former PCSO sentenced for perverting the course of justice

Following an investigation by Thames Valley Police a former PCSO has been jailed for perverting the course of justice in Maidenhead.

Former PCSO Christopher Chadwick, aged 22, who was based in Maidenhead was sentenced at Reading Crown Court on Tuesday (5/11) to one year and eight months’ imprisonment.

On 14 August 2023, Chadwick reported that he had seen a suspect for a burglary, and had pursued him. During which he said that he had been assaulted by the male suspect.

The suspect was charged with burglary, and also for assault based on Chadwick’s statement.

The man pleaded guilty to both offences and was sentenced to one month in prison.

A review of CCTV of the incident was undertaken, and it did not show Chadwick being assaulted.

As such, an investigation was launched by our Professional Standards Department and during an interview Chadwick admitted that he had not been assaulted.

On 20 April 2024, Chadwick resigned from the Force and as such is no longer employed by Thames Valley Police.

A file of evidence was sent to the Crown Prosecution Service and a charge of perverting the course of justice was authorised, and Chadwick was charged on 1 May.

He pleaded guilty to the offence on 13 September.

Deputy Chief Constable Ben Snuggs said: “Thames Valley Police makes it abundantly clear to all who join the force that honesty and integrity are the cornerstones of our public service.

“The actions of the former PCSO were completely unacceptable and led to someone being convicted and sentenced for an assault he did not commit.  

“As this case demonstrates, we will continue to rigorously investigate allegations such as this against our workforce, and take decisive action where wrongdoing is identified. By doing so, I believe we will continue to demonstrate that Thames Valley Police is a force that can be trusted by all our communities.”

GFL