Police officer sexually assaulted girl after turning off bodycam on 999 call

**Police Officer Jailed for Sexual Assault on Young Girl During Emergency Call**

In a disturbing case of abuse of power, a police officer has been sentenced to jail for sexually assaulting a girl under the age of 10 after turning off his body camera during a 999 emergency call to her home. PC Dean Dempster, who was summoned to an Oldham residence in 2023, committed the assault and even took a photo of the abuse using his own phone. The incident came to light when reports of ‘screaming and yelling’ inside the family home led other officers to the scene.

During a sentencing hearing at Liverpool Crown Court, it was revealed that the 35-year-old officer took advantage of the situation by leading the child to a room under the guise of questioning her but instead molested her. The vulnerable victim later disclosed the abuse to a family member, affirming that Dempster had touched her genitalia after pulling down her clothing.

Investigations into Dempster’s activities uncovered a disturbing pattern of behaviour, indicating a ‘sexual interest in children’. Prior to the assault, he was found to have accessed websites depicting inappropriate content involving children. Following a complaint regarding the inappropriate touching of a child, Dempster was placed under investigation and subsequently arrested.

Further searches at Dempster’s residence revealed incriminating evidence, including child’s clothing, shredded underwear, child abuse images, and disturbing apps on his mobile phone. It was also discovered that he had deleted crucial data from his devices before they could be seized by the authorities.

During the trial, the court heard testimonies detailing the heinous actions committed by Dempster, including the terrifying ordeal endured by the young victim. Despite his attempts to cover up his crimes, Dempster pleaded guilty to sexual assault, misconduct in a public office, and making indecent images of children.

Judge Stuart Driver KC condemned Dempster’s actions, highlighting the breach of trust placed in police officers by the public and the severe impact on the victim. Dempster was sentenced to 14 years in prison, with a minimum custodial period of nine years, and will be subject to stringent monitoring upon release.

Following the sentencing, Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods expressed outrage at Dempster’s actions and reaffirmed the commitment of the police force to safeguarding vulnerable individuals. Dempster’s offences were described as a betrayal of trust and a gross abuse of authority, leading to his immediate dismissal from the force.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and accountability within law enforcement agencies to prevent such atrocities from recurring.

**Insights and Summary:**

The case of PC Dean Dempster highlights the grave consequences of abuse of power and trust within law enforcement. The sentencing of Dempster to 14 years in prison sends a strong message regarding the seriousness of such crimes and the importance of holding individuals accountable, regardless of their position. The diligence of authorities in investigating and prosecuting cases of sexual assault is crucial in ensuring justice for the victims and maintaining public confidence in law enforcement agencies. Vigilance and robust vetting procedures are essential in identifying individuals with malicious intent and preventing them from exploiting their roles for criminal purposes. The bravery of the young victim and the swift action taken by law enforcement authorities in this case serve as commendable examples of the commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society. It is imperative that measures are continually strengthened to safeguard individuals from such heinous acts and that perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice to prevent further harm.