A serving police officer with the City of London force has been sent to prison after admitting to a serious burglary where he stole £50,000 in cash and harassing his partner.
Officer's Crimes and Arrest
Christopher Trowton, 39, of Armytage Road in Budleigh Salterton, Devon, was a serving officer when he committed the offences. The court at Kingston Crown Court heard that Trowton carried out a burglary in Hampshire on 19 May 2022 while off duty, making away with a substantial sum of cash.
He subsequently resigned from the City of London Police before the allegations were formally reported, with his final day of service being 27 June 2022. The Metropolitan Police arrested Trowton on 10 August 2022, charging him two days later.
Court Sentencing and Consequences
At Kingston Crown Court, Trowton pleaded guilty to both the burglary and a charge of harassment against his partner. The judge sentenced him to a total of 43 months imprisonment for the burglary, with a further 21 weeks for the harassment to run concurrently, resulting in a overall jail term of three years and seven months.
The court also issued a restraining order to protect his harassment victim. An accelerated misconduct hearing is scheduled to be held at the earliest opportunity, after which Trowton will be placed on the barred list, preventing future employment in policing.
Impact on Policing Trust
Detective Superintendent Carly Humphreys, Head of the Professional Standards Department at the City of London Police, condemned Trowton's actions. She stated his behaviour was knowingly unlawful and morally wrong, causing fear for his victims.
"He was a serving police officer at the time of his offences, and his disgraceful criminal behaviour has undoubtedly affected trust and confidence in policing," Humphreys said. The case highlights the force's commitment to holding officers accountable, regardless of their position.
