CERRIG SHARDLOW FROM WOKINGHAM SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL MISCONDUCT INVOLVING A MINOR AT SLOUGH POLICE STATION

A former police officer has been handed a suspended prison sentence after engaging in inappropriate and concerning conversations with a minor, discussing topics related to their sexual experiences and physical appearance.

Cerrig Shardlow, aged 46, who previously served as a police sergeant with Thames Valley Police and was based at Slough police station, admitted to attempting to communicate sexually explicit content with a young person.

The incident led to his sentencing at Lewes Crown Court, where he received a four-month prison term. However, this sentence was suspended for a period of two years, meaning he will not serve time unless he commits another offense within that timeframe.

Shardlow, whose residence is listed as Lime Close in Wokingham, was taken into custody on June 9, 2022. Following his arrest, he was immediately suspended from his duties as a police officer. The charges against him were formally brought in March 2023, marking a significant development in the case.

In response to the incident, Thames Valley Police’s deputy chief constable, Ben Snuggs, issued a statement condemning Shardlow’s actions as “completely unacceptable.” He emphasized that, had Shardlow not resigned from the force, he would have faced dismissal.

Additionally, the police force imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order on Shardlow, which will remain in effect for seven years. This order is designed to restrict his activities and prevent any further harm or misconduct.

The case has garnered attention not only because of the serious nature of the misconduct but also due to the context of police accountability and integrity. The article includes a photograph of Slough police station, highlighting the location where the misconduct took place and underscoring the importance of police conduct standards.