Detective Constable Caught in Child Sex Chat Sting
A former East Sussex cop has been convicted for trying to chat up a minor online — but it was a sting, and he fell straight into the trap.
Guildford Court Convicts Ex-Detective
Damien Gibbons, 48, of Hailsham, previously known as Damien Cotgreave, was found guilty at Guildford Crown Court. The case, which began on December 18, reveals how Gibbons attempted to engage in sexual communication with someone he thought was a 13-year-old girl — but was actually an adult vigilante.
POLIT Investigator Uncovers the Dark Plot
“Cotgreave thought he was talking to a 13-year-old girl and engaged in very explicit sexual conversation. But he was actually chatting with an adult who reported it to the police,” said Michelle Shepherd of Sussex Police’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT). “We acted fast to arrest him and protect children from harm. Anyone suspecting such behaviour should contact the police immediately.”
Police Officer’s Downfall: Misconduct and Resignation
- Gibbons was serving as a Detective Constable when arrested in February 2020.
- He was suspended and later resigned following multiple professional misconduct findings unrelated to this prosecution.
- A January 2021 public misconduct hearing revealed serious breaches of police standards.
- He was placed on the College of Policing Barred and Advisory list, banning him from any future law enforcement role.
Sentenced to Suspended Jail and Tough Restrictions
In April 2021, Gibbons was formally charged and has now received a one-year suspended prison sentence. Additionally, he faces a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), banning him from using computers or having contact with children.
