RICHARD MILLS SHOCKS ROCHDALE: POLICE OFFICER SEXUAL ASSAULTS COLLEAGUES AT NEXUS HOUSE AND OLDHAM DISTRICT

A disturbing case of misconduct within the police force has culminated in the conviction and sentencing of Detective Sergeant Richard Mills, a 42-year-old officer from Rochdale. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and the police department alike, highlighting issues of trust and abuse of authority within law enforcement.

Richard Mills was found guilty of two separate counts of sexual assault, with the incidents occurring in different years—once in 2016 and again in 2020. These assaults took place while Mills was serving in the Greater Manchester Police's Oldham district and later within the Crime Coordination Unit at Nexus House. The victims, who were colleagues of Mills, bravely came forward to report the abuse, despite the personal and professional risks involved. Their courage was instrumental in building a strong case against him.

Following a jury trial that concluded in December of the previous year, Mills was released on bail pending today’s sentencing hearing at Liverpool Crown Court. The court sentenced him to 18 months in prison, a punishment that reflects the severity of his misconduct. Additionally, Mills has been placed on the sex offender registry for a period of ten years, marking a significant step in holding him accountable for his actions.

Detective Superintendent David Jones, a senior officer within the Professional Standards Directorate, issued a statement condemning Mills’ actions. He emphasized that Mills had egregiously abused his position of trust and authority, exploiting his role to commit these reprehensible acts for his own perverse gratification. Jones praised the victims for their bravery in disclosing the assaults, which enabled the police to pursue a robust prosecution case.

Jones further noted that Mills had denied any wrongdoing throughout the proceedings, attempting to dismiss the allegations. However, the evidence presented during the two-week trial proved compelling enough to secure a conviction. The victims’ resilience and strength during the legal process were highlighted as the driving force behind the successful outcome.

As the criminal proceedings have now concluded, the police force will initiate gross misconduct proceedings against Mills. These proceedings are standard in cases involving serious breaches of conduct and are aimed at determining further disciplinary actions. The police have also announced their intention to write to the Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester, requesting that Mills be stripped of his police pension, given the gravity of his misconduct.

Detective Superintendent Jones concluded by condemning Mills’ actions, stating that he is unfit to serve the public and has been officially barred from continuing his policing duties. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity within law enforcement and the ongoing need to protect colleagues from abuse of power.