Rape-cleared former officer committed misconduct

A former police officer cleared of raping a woman he met on a dating app has been found to have committed gross misconduct by a disciplinary panel.

David Longden-Thurgood, previously of Hampshire Constabulary, faced two trials at Winchester Crown Court accused of the rape of the woman, in her 30s, in October 2020.

He was formally found not guilty after the Crown Prosecution Service decided not to hold another trial as the complainant did not want to give evidence for a third time.

A hearing held by Hampshire Constabulary this week has found the former police constable's behaviour was at a level of gross misconduct. The panel ruled he would have been dismissed had he not already resigned.

The 51-year-old from Waterlooville, who resigned in February 2024, has also been placed on the College of Policing's list of barred officers.

Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya said: "I want to make clear my admiration for the woman who has reported this to us, known as Ms A during the hearing.

"Her personal courage in coming forward following what happened to her at the hands of an off-duty police officer and the strength she has shown throughout this whole process is commendable.

"It is thanks to her bravery during this incredibly challenging time, that David Longden-Thurgood is no longer able to abuse his position as a police officer to gain the trust of women.

"Following the conclusion of the criminal justice process, our Professional Standards Department was able to carefully consider the case, while the officer remained suspended from duty.

"Throughout this case our diligent team of officers and staff have showed unwavering commitment to investigating this offence, sensitively and with great empathy for Ms A.

"This has ensured the matter was brought before a misconduct panel, who were left in no doubt of the right result in this case."

The first trial collapsed in June 2022 after four jurors tested positive for Covid-19.

And the jury in the retrial was discharged in January 2023 after failing to reach a verdict.

Mr Longden-Thurgood had told the trial that he believed that the complainant, who he had met on the Bumble dating app, had consented to having sex although she had said that she did not want to.

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