Former GMP Police Officer Dean Dempster Sexually Assaults Young Girl

A former Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officer, Dean Dempster, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for sexually assaulting a young girl while on duty and possessing indecent images of children.

Dempster appeared at Liverpool Crown Court after pleading guilty to these charges. The court heard that in December last year, Dempster attended an incident at a residence and went upstairs with the young victim while other officers remained downstairs. He turned off his body-worn camera, entered a room with the girl, sexually assaulted her, and took a picture on his phone.

The victim reported the assault to her family, who subsequently contacted the police. Dempster initially fabricated details of the incident but was arrested after his phone was seized. A forensic examination revealed hundreds of indecent images of children on his device, including category A images depicting serious sexual abuse.

Dempster's home search also uncovered additional devices and children's clothing. The court heard that Dempster had taken still images from his body-worn camera of a different child nearly two years prior while responding to an incident in Oldham.

Supt Philip Hutchinson of GMP stated that Dempster's actions caused significant damage to community trust, leading to increased tensions and reluctance from parents to leave children alone with officers. Judge Stuart Driver KC described Dempster as a dangerous offender who betrayed the public and preyed on vulnerable children for his own pleasure.

Dempster received an extended sentence of 14 years, with a minimum term of nine years before he can be considered for parole. He was also issued a lifelong sexual harm prevention order and faces a five-year extended license period upon release.

GMP Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods condemned Dempster's actions, stating that he represents the worst of society and has no place in law enforcement. The force emphasized its commitment to protecting children and pledged to work tirelessly to restore trust within the community.