Christopher Richardson-Blake

Christopher Richardson-Blake, a 32-year-old electrician from Redbridge in Peterborough, abused his position as a contractor to perpetrate a serious invasion of privacy at Abingdon police station. Hired to carry out electrical work at the station located on Colwell Drive, he covertly fitted a hidden camera in the women's changing room. The device was used to secretly record female police officers as they undressed, capturing footage of them performing private acts for his own sexual gratification.

The court at Oxford Crown Court heard details of how Richardson-Blake's actions constituted voyeurism, a sexual offence under UK law. In addition to the filming, he stole a laptop belonging to Thames Valley Police from the premises, which was later discovered at his home during the investigation. Richardson-Blake admitted to both charges of voyeurism and theft. The sentencing judge imposed a total of 10 months' imprisonment, comprising six months for the voyeurism offence and four months for the theft.

Further measures were put in place to protect the public, including Richardson-Blake's registration on the sex offenders register for a period of 10 years and the issuance of a sexual offences prevention order lasting the same duration. These restrictions aim to monitor and limit his activities to prevent future offences.

Superintendent Andy Boyd of Thames Valley Police commented on the case, stating: "Christopher Richardson-Blake completely abused his position when he, without thought for anyone's right to privacy, installed the camera in Abingdon police station. We are pleased Richardson-Blake has been brought to justice." Investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Mark Johns echoed these sentiments, describing the incident as "a complete invasion of privacy against employees of Thames Valley Police." The case, reported by the BBC on 3 March 2014, underscores the vulnerabilities within institutional settings and the importance of vigilance against such breaches.