Tim Clarkson, a former award-winning police sergeant, has seen his career dismantled after being found guilty of indecently assaulting two women at a birthday celebration in an O’Neills pub.

The 37-year-old sergeant reportedly exploited the occasion amidst personal turmoil linked to his faltering marriage with a fellow officer.

During a hearing at Staines Magistrates’ Court, an emotional Clarkson accepted a sentence requiring him to perform 200 hours of community service after pleading guilty to charges from July 2024.

Background and Incident Details

Clarkson had resigned from the Hampshire Constabulary to avoid an impending dismissal while also dealing with significant financial debt estimated at £40,000. His resignation followed a commendable career marked by bravery, including him receiving a National Police Bravery Award in 2023.

On August 28, 2023, Clarkson was celebrated for his swift actions disarming a suspect armed with a handgun and two explosives in Gosport. The incident ended with a detonation and Clarkson managing to safely extricate the suspect from a smoke-filled environment.

Court Proceedings

During the recent court proceedings, District Judge Julie Cooper detailed the events leading to the charges. Clarkson touched one victim’s hand and placed it on his genitals, while in a separate incident he pulled another woman close, resulting in her accidental contact with what was believed to be his erect penis.

Judge Cooper pointed out that Clarkson’s behavior was exacerbated by alcohol intake on his birthday, with the remarks infringing on the personal boundaries of the women involved. Clarkson’s inappropriate comments included questioning one woman about her boyfriend’s presence at the celebration.

Victim Impact Statements

In her impact statement, one victim recounted feelings of regret and self-doubt over not standing up to Clarkson during the incident. She indicated that the episode had caused her significant emotional distress.

The second victim described the persistent trauma of the experience, leading her to resume anti-depressant medication and suffering from panic attacks.

Judgment and Penalties

In addition to community service, Clarkson has been ordered to compensate each victim with £500 and will remain on the sex offenders register for five years. Judge Cooper acknowledged Clarkson’s previous service, noting that while he was seen as a person of good character, his actions on that night were inexcusable.