Former Metropolitan Police officer Cliff Mitchell has been sentenced to life imprisonment at Croydon Crown Court, with a minimum term of 13 years and 225 days. Over the period from 2014 to 2023, Mitchell was found guilty of 10 counts of rape, three counts of rape of a child under 13, one count of kidnapping, and a breach of a non-molestation order. His crimes, described as depraved by the victims, included threatening statements and acts of violence, such as kidnapping and raping one victim at knifepoint.

The court heard statements from the victims who outlined the severe and ongoing trauma they have experienced, with some suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and a loss of self-worth. The severity of Mitchell’s offenses was stressed by Mrs Justice May, who imposed a discretionary life sentence due to his grave actions and lack of remorse.

Mitchell, who had been a serving officer at the time of the offenses, was dismissed from the Metropolitan Police following a misconduct hearing in December 2023. The case has raised concerns about the vetting processes within the force. The judge and the court praised the courage of the victims and the individuals who contributed to Mitchell’s arrest and subsequent conviction.