A former student officer with Gloucestershire Police, Craig Winston, has been sentenced to 17 years in prison for raping one woman twice and sexually assaulting another, both while they were asleep. The sentencing took place on February 6, 2024, at Shrewsbury Crown Court, following a trial that concluded in December 2023.
Winston, aged 36, was convicted of multiple charges, including two counts of rape, one count of causing a female to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity, and one count of engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, all against one woman. Additionally, he was found guilty of one count of sexual assault by penetration regarding another victim. His actions occurred while he was off-duty. Although he faced four other charges, the jury found him not guilty on those counts.
Details of the Case and Sentencing
During the trial, evidence presented indicated that Winston had researched online methods for sexually assaulting individuals who were drugged or unconscious. His internet history suggested an alarming interest in degrading and punishing women through sexual abuse.
In his sentencing remarks, His Honour Judge Anthony Lowe stated that Winston must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before being eligible for release on licence. To further protect the victims, Judge Lowe also imposed a 20-year restraining order against Winston.
One of the survivors provided a powerful statement in court, describing Winston as a “selfish, twisted, depraved bully.” She recounted how he threatened her, claiming she would lose everything if she reported his actions to law enforcement. Her words highlighted the pervasive fear that often accompanies such abuse, stating, “Yet it was your and only your actions that brought you here.”
The other victim expressed relief following the conclusion of the trial, stating, “There is no statement that can truly describe the ways that Craig Winston ruined my life,” adding that she could finally begin to move forward.
Impact on Policing and Community Response
In a statement following the conviction, Detective Sergeant Ed Garlick acknowledged the challenges victims face when reporting sexual abuse, particularly when the offender is a police officer. He commended both women for their bravery, stating, “By bravely coming forward, they have stopped his ability to harm anyone else.”
The investigation began after allegations surfaced in October 2022, leading to Winston’s immediate suspension from duty and subsequent resignation in February 2023. At the time of the allegations, he was a probationary officer who had joined the force in January 2022.
Deputy Chief Constable Katy Barrow-Grint expressed her shock at the severity of Winston’s crimes, emphasizing the importance of holding officers accountable. She stated, “There is absolutely no place in policing for someone like him,” and confirmed that misconduct proceedings would follow to ensure Winston’s name is placed on the police barred list.
The case was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which then directed it back to Gloucestershire Police for a thorough investigation. The subsequent inquiry, led by the Criminal Investigation Department, resulted in charges authorized by the Crown Prosecution Service.
Gemma Kneebone, a Senior Crown Prosecutor, highlighted the significant evidence gathered during the investigation, which revealed Winston’s disturbing interests. She praised the courage of the victims, stating, “This prosecution would not have been possible without the evidence provided by these two women.”
For those affected by sexual violence, support is available from various organizations. In Gloucestershire, individuals can reach out to First Light for assistance, whether or not they choose to engage with the criminal justice system. More information can be found online regarding available resources dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual violence.
