Kenny Lewis

A former Bristol police constable, Kenny Lewis, has been sentenced to four years in prison for engaging in sexual activity with vulnerable women while on duty. The case, heard at Exeter Crown Court, highlighted the severe abuse of authority by Lewis, who resigned from Avon and Somerset Police in December 2008 before his conviction.

Lewis, aged 26 from Bibury Close in Nailsea, pleaded guilty to six charges of sexual misconduct and two counts of misusing police computers to track down women. He was acquitted on three rape charges and one additional misconduct charge. The court learned that Lewis systematically targeted women involved in crimes as witnesses, victims, or perpetrators. He would introduce himself under false pretences of further inquiries to gain their trust and induce them into performing various sex acts.

One particularly harrowing account came from a 33-year-old pole dancer, whose police video interview was played in court. She described how Lewis used handcuffs to restrain her on two occasions, telling her, 'There is no point opening your mouth. No one is going to listen to a stripper.' In total, Lewis engaged in sexual activity with four women during his time as an officer. He also accessed confidential files on the Police National Computer (PNC) to locate vulnerable individuals.

Judge Graham Cottle, in sentencing Lewis, rejected his version of events despite the acquittals on rape charges. 'I have no doubt that you systematically targeted vulnerable females and did so for one purpose in mind and that was sexual gratification for yourself,' the judge stated. He further remarked, 'In no sense was genuine affection a feature in this case, it was all about the selfish pursuit of sexual gratification. You quite shamelessly used your position as a police officer to gain trust and respect.' The judge described Lewis's actions towards one victim as 'little short of rape.'

Following the sentencing, Detective Chief Superintendent Louisa Rolfe of Avon and Somerset Police commented on the case. She noted that Lewis had 'let down former colleagues' and abused his position of trust to target vulnerable women. Rolfe praised the victims for their courage and determination in coming forward, which aided the investigation. The case underscores the betrayal of public trust by those in authority, with Lewis's misconduct spanning his employment period prior to his resignation.