Former police officer from Ashurst, Gerard Hutchings, in Southampton Magistrates’ Court charged with 29 historical misconduct and sex offences

A former police officer from the New Forest charged with 29 historical misconduct and sex offences at stations across the county has appeared in court.

Gerard Hutchings (64) of Wingrove Road, Ashurst, is accused of offences include indecent assaults, causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent and misconduct in a public office.

Today (Tuesday) he appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court where he confirmed his address and date of birth.

The charges follow an investigation by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Operation Marmion team.

They relate to 18 complainants, who were aged between 17 and 31 at the time of alleged incidents which were reported to have happened between 1999 and 2007 in various police stations across Hampshire, where Mr Hutchings was an inspector.

He left the force in 2007, and the Operation Marmion team began investigating in 2021 after reports about the alleged offending.

Hutchings is due to appear at Southampton Crown Court on 5th January 2024.