Ex-Devon and Cornwall Officer Jailed for Abuse of Vulnerable Women
Local Officer’s Conviction Shakes Community Trust
Residents across Devon and Cornwall are reeling following the conviction of a former police officer who systematically targeted vulnerable women for sexual exploitation. James Stillman, 32, from Chard in Somerset, was sentenced to two years and four months in prison after pleading guilty to three counts of misconduct in public office. The case, heard at Bristol Crown Court, has prompted serious questions about safeguarding protocols within our local police force and the protection of victims seeking help. Stillman’s offences occurred while he was serving as a Devon and Cornwall Police officer, a position that granted him access to sensitive information and placed him in direct contact with vulnerable people. His actions represent a catastrophic breach of the trust residents place in law enforcement—trust that many say is now damaged. For those who call Newquay home or visit Fistral Beach and our beautiful coastline, this case serves as a stark reminder that safety concerns extend beyond holiday season tourism. Local domestic violence support services report increased calls from worried residents questioning whether they can safely contact police for help.
How the Crimes Were Discovered and What Residents Should Know
The predatory behaviour came to light when one victim reported Stillman’s actions to her domestic violence support worker. Court proceedings revealed a disturbing pattern: Stillman had obtained a teenager’s phone number through an official police investigation, then bombarded her with sexually explicit messages and demands for photographs. When she repeatedly refused to meet him, he manipulated her with comments like ‘if you’re getting too attached to me, this isn’t a good idea’—demonstrating calculated psychological control. The following day, he attended the home of a domestic violence victim under the guise of a welfare check. He then sexually assaulted her, exploiting his position and her vulnerability. The victim later described feeling ‘scared, trapped and confused,’ unable to refuse a police officer’s advances. She has since experienced nightmares and lost all confidence in police protection. Local victim support organisations emphasise that this case highlights why continued funding for independent domestic violence services remains critical. Residents should know that reporting such behaviour is possible—and encouraged—through independent channels, and that multiple support services exist to help those affected by police misconduct.
Community Response and Moving Forward Together
Devon and Cornwall Police have stated that Stillman was arrested immediately upon reports being made and suspended from duty. He subsequently resigned from the force and underwent an Accelerated Misconduct Hearing. Assistant Chief Constable Glen Mayhew described the conduct as ‘totally unacceptable,’ acknowledging the profound damage such behaviour inflicts on community confidence. For local residents, particularly those who go to Newquay for safer communities and family-friendly experiences—from walks with dogs on beaches to seeking dog friendly accommodation—this case underscores the importance of robust accountability measures. Community groups, victim support organisations, and local councils are calling for enhanced training and vetting procedures. The case demonstrates why independent oversight of police conduct remains essential. Residents concerned about police accountability can contact the Independent Office for Police Conduct directly. Domestic violence survivors should know that support remains available through organisations like Women’s Aid and local crisis lines, which operate independently from police structures. Moving forward, our community must demand transparency, better safeguarding protocols, and continued investment in victim support services that operate outside traditional police channels. Only through collective vigilance can we rebuild the trust that officers like Stillman shattered.
Source: Former Devon and Cornwall PC jailed for targeting women for sex
