John Stringer from Fairwater, Cardiff, has been jailed for sexual offences against a girl under the age of 13.
Stringer denied the five offences but was found guilty following a trial at Cardiff Crown Court in September 2024.
The court heard that the 43-year-old was a serving Gwent Police officer at the time of the sexual assaults, but the offences were committed in Cardiff where he lived.
His offending came to light in July 2021, when the victim made a disclosure at school and an investigation was carried out by the South Wales Police Child Protection Investigation Unit.
Stringer was arrested and charged with two counts of sexual assault by touching, two counts of causing / inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and one count of causing a child to watch a sexual act.
Officer in the case Detective Sergeant Annalisa Bartley from South Wales Police, said: “The victim in this case was incredibly brave and stoic in speaking out and helping to bring John Stringer to justice. As a police officer, Stringer was trusted in the community.
“The victim was made to feel by Stringer that she was telling lies, but her detailed and specific accounts were supported by mobile phone analysis.
“Stringer’s actions have had a profound effect on the young girl and her family who have acted with dignity and patience throughout this investigation.
“We hope the outcome at court brings allows her to continue the process of recovering from this ordeal.”
On Monday, November 4, Stringer was sentenced to 10 years in prison. He is also subject of a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and an indefinite Restraining Order
Superintendent Tom Moore, from South Wales Police, added: “We urge victims of sexual assault to come forward in confidence. Please do not be deterred by a person’s profession. South Wales Police takes all allegations seriously – you will be heard, and support is available.”
