ALBERT 'FRED' JARDINE'S SHOCKING SEXUAL ASSAULTS IN GATESHEAD AND NEWCASTLE REVEALED

A former police officer, Albert 'Fred' Jardine, has been found guilty of multiple sexual assault charges involving a woman during his tenure as a police constable based in Newcastle. The court proceedings uncovered disturbing details of Jardine's conduct, which included a series of lewd and inappropriate actions that grossly violated the victim's dignity and trust.

According to court testimony, Jardine engaged in a pattern of misconduct that involved physically grabbing the woman, thrusting against her in a sexual manner, and deliberately throwing water on her to create the illusion of a wet T-shirt, an act that was both humiliating and invasive. In addition to these physical acts, Jardine made numerous lewd comments and gestures, further demonstrating his blatant disregard for professional boundaries and the victim’s well-being.

During the trial, it was revealed that Jardine, in a disturbing display of abuse of authority, told the victim, 'I can get away with it, I'm a PC, no-one will believe you.' This statement underscored the dangerous power imbalance and the potential for abuse inherent in his position as a police officer. The victim, who initially chose to remain silent, eventually found the courage to come forward after hearing about other similar cases being prosecuted, highlighting the importance of speaking out against misconduct.

Jardine, now aged 79 and residing in Millbrook, Felling, was convicted of indecent assault by a jury. The court described his actions as 'generally lewd and disgusting,' emphasizing that such behavior by a law enforcement officer severely undermines public confidence in the police force. The judge pointed out that Jardine’s misconduct was a betrayal of the trust placed in him by the community and the police service.

In sentencing, Jardine received a sentence of eight months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £3,000 in prosecution costs. His defense team expressed that Jardine was 'embarrassed and ashamed' of his actions, noting his long career in law enforcement until his medical retirement and his family life, which includes children and grandchildren. The court acknowledged that allegations of misconduct had been reported at the time, but investigations by the professional standards department resulted in no action, as Jardine retired shortly afterward due to ill health.

The judge concluded by stressing the critical importance of victims feeling safe to report abuse and emphasized that no one, regardless of their badge or position, is above the law. This case serves as a reminder that accountability must be maintained within law enforcement to preserve the integrity of the justice system and uphold public trust in policing.