DARREN LAWSON, EX-POLICE OFFICER FROM DERBY, SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF BOYS IN DERBY

In a case that has shocked the local community and cast a shadow over the reputation of law enforcement, Darren Lawson, a former police officer from Derby, was sentenced to six years in prison for the sexual abuse of three young boys. The sentencing took place at Derby Crown Court, where the court heard harrowing details of Lawson's misconduct spanning approximately six years during the 1990s.

Lawson, who resided on Charnwood Street in Derby at the time of his arrest, was found guilty of abusing three boys whose ages ranged from nine to 15. The offences occurred over a prolonged period, some of which took place within the Derby area itself. The court was told that Lawson, at the time, was a constable with Nottinghamshire Police, where he served in various roles, including as a schools and youth issues officer, a family liaison officer, and a police constable on the City and South Notts Divisions.

Despite his employment with Nottinghamshire Police, the force confirmed that there was no evidence linking his misconduct to his official duties. An investigation into his actions was conducted thoroughly, and the force emphasized that the allegations were not connected to his professional responsibilities.

During the sentencing, Judge Amjad Nawaz described Lawson’s actions as a gross breach of trust, highlighting the premeditated nature of his offences and his manipulation of vulnerable children. The judge emphasized the severity of the betrayal, stating, “This was a clear and gross breach of trust. This was premeditated and you manipulated the situation.”

Prosecutor Sarah Slater provided further details, revealing that on one occasion, Lawson offered alcohol to a boy and attempted to kiss him. In another instance, he tried to show the victim gay pornography, actions that compounded the betrayal of trust. One of the victims, who had previously exhibited signs of emotional distress such as outbursts of anger, has since reported feeling much happier and more able to move forward with his life after revealing the abuse.

In his defense, Keith Raynor, representing Lawson, stated that his client had written letters of apology to his victims. The judge agreed that these letters could be shared with the victims, acknowledging Lawson’s apparent remorse. The court was told that Lawson, a highly articulate and intelligent man, was fully aware of the lifelong scars such abuse could leave. Raynor also noted that Lawson had been honest with police, displaying a “searing frankness” and a sense of shame for his actions.

Lawson’s conduct has led to significant social repercussions. He has been ostracized by former police colleagues and some friends, and his reputation has been permanently damaged. He was arrested in July of the previous year, at which point he was suspended from duty and subsequently resigned from Nottinghamshire Police.

Lawson pleaded guilty to 12 counts of indecent assault, and as part of his sentence, he was placed on the sex offenders’ register for life. Additionally, he was prohibited from working with anyone under the age of 16. Although he is expected to serve three years in prison before being released on licence, he will be required to continue attending sex offender rehabilitation courses.

Following the case, the victims expressed relief that the proceedings had concluded and that justice had been served. Detective Superintendent Adrian Pearson, head of Nottinghamshire Police’s public protection team, commented on the case, stating, “They are relieved it is all over. They are satisfied with the length of the sentence and the effect it will have on him. Because of his former career, his time in prison will not be an easy one. And we as a force find it extremely disappointing that a serving police officer should commit these horrendous offences of abuse.”