Former Notts police officer jailed for two years for historic sex offences

A former Nottinghamshire Police officer has been jailed today - Wednesday, June 22 - after being found guilty of historic sexual offences from the 1970s.
Anthony Critchley, a former police officer, has been jailed after being found guilty of historic sexual offences.Anthony Critchley, a former police officer, has been jailed after being found guilty of historic sexual offences.
Anthony Critchley, a former police officer, has been jailed after being found guilty of historic sexual offences.

Anthony Critchley, 64, of Riseholme Avenue, Wollaton, was charged with three counts of indecent assault on a child and one of indecency with a child.

The offences were committed whilst off-duty in the early 1970s against a boy in his early teens.

Critchley denied the offences but was found guilty following a trial at Nottingham Crown Court.

The court heard how Critchley befriended the young boy after attending his home following an allegation of an assault against his mother.

Critchley and the boy bonded over a shared affection for birds and Critchley said he would take the child to Attenborough Nature Reserve.

The court was told how Critchley was trusted by the victim and his mother because of his position of trust at the police.

Critchley then took the boy to the Nature Reserve where he sexually assaulted him. On two further occasions Critchley collected the boy from his home, on each occasion committing further acts of sexual abuse.

Critchley was sentenced to two years in prison. He will also be required to sign the sex offenders register for 10 years.

Det Insp Amy Styles-Jones of Nottinghamshire Police said: “This is a shocking example of how a serving police officer took advantage of his position and abused a young and vulnerable person whom he had made contact with through the course of his duties.

“The sentencing today is testament to the bravery of the victim who came forward and trusted the police service with this complaint.

“Nottinghamshire Police will take reports of such matters seriously and investigate them, working with the Crown Prosecution Service to put a robust case to the courts. Reporting of such matters should not be deterred by time delays or the community standing of those responsible.”

An NSPCC spokesman said: “Abuse can ruin lives and yet Critchley exploited his authority as a police officer with zero concern about the devastating impact of his crimes.

“We hope this shows victims of historic sexual abuse that the authorities will take action no matter how many years have passed.

“It is vital that victims have the confidence to come forward, knowing they will be taken seriously. They can call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000.”