David Waller

David Waller, a former police constable with Cleveland Police, has been convicted of a series of serious sexual offences committed against underage girls over a 12-year period. The 34-year-old from Stockton-on-Tees was found guilty at Teesside Crown Court of 10 charges, including one count of rape, two counts of sexual activity with a child, causing a child to engage in sexual activity, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and attempting to meet a child following sexual grooming. These crimes took place between 2004 and 2016, with some occurring while Waller was serving as a PC with the Cleveland force from 2006 to 2010.

The court heard that Waller targeted six victims, all aged between 13 and 18, using his position of trust within organisations to impress and manipulate them. Judge Toby Hedworth QC described Waller as a 'sexual predator' during sentencing, stating that he had exploited his role as a police officer to 'pursue your interest in girls below the age of consent.' Waller denied all allegations throughout the trial but was ultimately convicted on the majority of counts. He was cleared of one count of sexual assault, and the judge directed the jury to acquit him on two counts of rape earlier in the proceedings.

Following the conviction, Waller was jailed for 12 years. Superintendent Wendy Tinkler of Cleveland Police condemned his actions as 'truly appalling,' explaining that 'Waller used his position of trust within organisations in order to prey on young vulnerable girls. He flattered and tricked these victims, grooming them in order to achieve the aim of satisfying his sexual needs without any thought for the impact.' She highlighted how Waller's denial of the offences prolonged the victims' suffering by forcing them to relive the abuse in court, and praised their courage throughout the judicial process.

The case, reported by the BBC on 24 July 2019, underscores the betrayal of public trust by a serving officer. Related coverage included details of Waller's denial that he believed one victim was only 14, his clearance on two rape charges, and descriptions of his 'devious and manipulative' behaviour. Sources: BBC News, Teesside Crown Court, Cleveland Police.