Detective Sergeant Richard Mills Convicted of Sexual Assaults Against Colleagues
In a shocking case that has sent ripples through the Greater Manchester Police (GMP), Detective Sergeant Richard Mills, a 41-year-old officer based in Rochdale, has been found guilty of sexually assaulting colleagues. After a thorough two-week trial at Liverpool Crown Court, Mills was convicted of two counts of sexual assault, involving both a police officer and a staff member within the GMP.
The disturbing allegations against Mills first came to light in 2016, when a report from a staff member prompted an internal investigation. This investigation revealed a troubling pattern of behaviour that led to Mills being reassigned from his position at Chadderton Police Station to the Crime Coordination Unit in Nexus House. Despite the initial inquiry, Mills' inappropriate behaviour persisted, culminating in further allegations.
In March 2023, Mills was reported for making sexual remarks in an open work environment, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere for his colleagues. The complaints that followed not only highlighted his inappropriate comments but also prompted a police officer to step forward, alleging that Mills had sexually assaulted her in 2020. In both reported incidents, Mills was accused of physically forcing his coworkers to touch his genitals over his trousers.
Following the allegations and a series of complaints, Mills was suspended from duty on March 27, 2023. By July 20, 2023, he was formally charged with five counts of sexual assault. During police interviews, Mills denied the charges and opted to remain silent when questioned further, a strategy that ultimately failed to exonerate him.
On December 20, 2024, the court delivered its verdict, finding Mills guilty of the sexual assault charges. In light of these findings, Mills now faces an accelerated misconduct hearing to address his unprofessional behaviour and violations of the standards expected of a police officer.
Detective Chief Inspector Iqbal Ahmed, from GMP’s Professional Standards Directorate, addressed the gravity of the situation, acknowledging the alarming nature of Mills' actions. The investigation, which involved interviews with 37 officers and staff members who had worked alongside Mills, gathered substantial evidence to support the prosecution's case.
As a result of his conviction, Mills now holds the status of a convicted sex offender. GMP has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high professional standards and ensuring that individuals who betray public trust are held accountable for their actions.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges within law enforcement agencies to address issues of misconduct and ensure a safe working environment for all personnel. Mills is expected to face further disciplinary measures in the forthcoming misconduct proceedings, underscoring the necessity for vigilance in upholding the integrity of the police force.
As this situation continues to unfold, the Greater Manchester community and the police force itself await the next steps in ensuring justice is served and that such incidents are not repeated in the future. The conviction serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and the responsibility of those in positions of power of whom should adhere to the highest ethical standards.
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The disturbing allegations against Mills first came to light in 2016, when a report from a staff member prompted an internal investigation. This investigation revealed a troubling pattern of behaviour that led to Mills being reassigned from his position at Chadderton Police Station to the Crime Coordination Unit in Nexus House. Despite the initial inquiry, Mills' inappropriate behaviour persisted, culminating in further allegations.
In March 2023, Mills was reported for making sexual remarks in an open work environment, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere for his colleagues. The complaints that followed not only highlighted his inappropriate comments but also prompted a police officer to step forward, alleging that Mills had sexually assaulted her in 2020. In both reported incidents, Mills was accused of physically forcing his coworkers to touch his genitals over his trousers.
Following the allegations and a series of complaints, Mills was suspended from duty on March 27, 2023. By July 20, 2023, he was formally charged with five counts of sexual assault. During police interviews, Mills denied the charges and opted to remain silent when questioned further, a strategy that ultimately failed to exonerate him.
On December 20, 2024, the court delivered its verdict, finding Mills guilty of the sexual assault charges. In light of these findings, Mills now faces an accelerated misconduct hearing to address his unprofessional behaviour and violations of the standards expected of a police officer.
Detective Chief Inspector Iqbal Ahmed, from GMP’s Professional Standards Directorate, addressed the gravity of the situation, acknowledging the alarming nature of Mills' actions. The investigation, which involved interviews with 37 officers and staff members who had worked alongside Mills, gathered substantial evidence to support the prosecution's case.
As a result of his conviction, Mills now holds the status of a convicted sex offender. GMP has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high professional standards and ensuring that individuals who betray public trust are held accountable for their actions.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges within law enforcement agencies to address issues of misconduct and ensure a safe working environment for all personnel. Mills is expected to face further disciplinary measures in the forthcoming misconduct proceedings, underscoring the necessity for vigilance in upholding the integrity of the police force.
As this situation continues to unfold, the Greater Manchester community and the police force itself await the next steps in ensuring justice is served and that such incidents are not repeated in the future. The conviction serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and the responsibility of those in positions of power of whom should adhere to the highest ethical standards.
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