DAVID JEFFRIES KNYPERSLEY POLICE OFFICER JAILED FOR HISTORIC SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST SCHOOLGIRL IN STAFFORDSHIRE

In a case that has shocked the local community and tarnished the reputation of a once-respected public servant, former Staffordshire Police officer David Jeffries has been sentenced to six years in prison for a series of historic sexual offences committed against a young girl. The offences, which spanned several years, were brought to light after the victim finally found the courage to report the abuse to authorities in 2012.

Jeffries, aged 61 and previously stationed at Madeley Police Station, was convicted after a trial of 12 counts of indecent assault and two counts of indecency with a child. Despite denying all charges, the court found sufficient evidence to convict him on these counts. The judge, Mark Eades, also imposed a Sexual Offences Prevention Order on Jeffries, aiming to prevent any further offending.

During the sentencing hearing at Stafford Crown Court, Judge Eades emphasized the lasting impact of Jeffries’s actions, stating, “The damage done to a young girl by the commission of these offences lasts a lifetime.” The judge highlighted the stark contrast between Jeffries’s public persona and his private conduct, describing him as a man who was perceived as kind, genuine, and dedicated to his duties as a police officer. However, behind closed doors, Jeffries was revealed to be a domineering individual with a predatory streak, who subjected his victim to repeated indecent assaults that have profoundly affected her life.

Jeffries, who left Staffordshire Police in 2001 and subsequently moved to Fuerteventura, always maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings. He was cleared of an attempted rape but was convicted of the other charges after a trial held last month. Prosecutor Steven Bailey described Jeffries as a “strong-willed, forceful character,” noting that he could be violent and frightening, especially when under the influence of alcohol. Bailey further explained that Jeffries’s behaviour was characterized by a need to dominate and control, which manifested in the abuse of his victim.

The court was informed that the victim only felt able to come forward and report the abuse after years of silence, finally making her complaint in 2012. The court also heard from the defence, with Mark Le Brocq acknowledging that a substantial prison sentence was appropriate given the seriousness of the offences. However, he asked the judge to consider Jeffries’s age, the fact that the offences were committed many years ago, and his long history of public service. Le Brocq also mentioned that Jeffries’s partner still resides in Fuerteventura and would suffer emotional hardship as a result of his incarceration.

At the sentencing, Judge Eades addressed Jeffries directly, noting that as a former police officer, he was fully aware of the gravity of his actions. Jeffries was bailed to live at addresses in Knypersley, specifically Birch Avenue, and Bignall Hill, Bignall End. The judge described Jeffries as a man who liked to get his own way, drank excessively, and engaged in persistent and consistent offending over a prolonged period. The judge expressed deep sympathy for the victim, citing her impact statement as particularly heart-wrenching.

Jeffries is expected to serve approximately four and a half years of his sentence before being eligible for release on licence. In addition to his imprisonment, he was subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which aims to restrict his future conduct and protect the community.

Staffordshire Police’s Assistant Chief Constable Nick Baker commented on the case, stating, “Jeffries was a sexual predator. No matter how long people have suffered in silence, we hope the jailing of Jeffries will give other victims the confidence to come forward and talk to us. We can offer specialist support, along with our partners, to victims of such crimes, no matter how historic they are. This sentence sends out a strong message to those who engage in this abhorrent type of offending behaviour. Reports of sexual abuse are treated extremely seriously and will be thoroughly investigated. Offenders will be caught and dealt with accordingly.”