Paul Beckwith

Paul Beckwith, a 53-year-old former police officer with North Yorkshire Police, has pleaded guilty to serious child sex offences involving indecent images and voyeurism. The disgraced officer, who served for 33 years, admitted the charges at York Magistrates’ Court on 31 October 2025, marking a shocking fall from grace for a man once trusted with high-profile family liaison duties.

Beckwith's involvement in the case came to light after his arrest on 17 November 2024, leading to his immediate suspension from duty. Officers discovered a stash of indecent images of children on his devices, including 11 category A images—the most serious classification—two category B images, and nine category C images. In addition to the possession charges, he faced five counts of voyeurism, which prosecutor Sarah Tyrer described in court as demonstrating a 'substantial breach of trust'. Beckwith, who had no previous convictions, spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth during the hearing, appearing in a dark suit.

The offences were not committed while Beckwith was on duty, according to court proceedings reported by the Daily Mirror. However, his position as a police officer amplified the severity of the breach. Beckwith's career included notable roles such as North Yorkshire Police’s first drone operator, a neighbourhood officer in Holgate, and family liaison officer. Notably, he supported Peter Lawrence, father of missing chef Claudia Lawrence, during public appeals following her disappearance on 18 March 2009. Claudia, 35 at the time, vanished from her home in Heworth, York, and police believe she was murdered. Beckwith appeared alongside Peter Lawrence in TV appearances and remembrance events, including leading a parade in York in 2023.

Released on conditional bail, Beckwith is scheduled for sentencing at York Crown Court on 19 November 2025, where he faces the prospect of imprisonment. North Yorkshire Police confirmed his suspension and emphasised their commitment to upholding standards. This case underscores the profound betrayal felt by the force and the public, given Beckwith's long service and public-facing roles.