A former Kent Police sergeant has been issued a Sexual Risk Order (SRO) after being discovered naked near a children’s play area in Chatham, Kent.

Incident and Dismissal

The incident occurred in February 2024 and led to Simon Ince’s dismissal from the Kent Police force following a fast-track misconduct hearing. Initially, prosecutors decided against criminal charges due to a lack of evidence of anyone directly witnessing the act.

Evidence of Patterned Behavior

However, incriminating photos found on Ince’s phone revealed a pattern of similar behavior in the same woodland area approximately five months prior. Ince claimed he was jogging and wringing sweat from his clothes when spotted by dog walkers.

Court Ruling

A judge ruled Ince’s explanation “evasive and untruthful,” finding he acted for sexual gratification and “enjoyed the thrill of doing it outdoors.”

Details of the Sexual Risk Order

The SRO imposes strict restrictions on Ince’s behavior and movements. He is prohibited from removing his underwear or urinating in public, except in designated facilities.

Restrictions and Potential Penalties

The order also bans him from entering the Horsted Valley nature reserve. A breach of the SRO could result in up to five years imprisonment, and police have stated he will be “closely monitored.”

Initial Reports and Investigation

The initial incident involved reports from concerned citizens of a naked man near the children’s play area. Dog walkers described seeing Ince, causing them significant distress, and a photograph was taken by a member of the public.

Previous Offence and Conditional Caution

Kent Police initially sought charges of indecent exposure or outraging public decency, but the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) determined there wasn't sufficient evidence to proceed. Ince admitted to a lesser public order offence in September 2024 at Brighton Magistrates’ Court.

Avoiding Sex Offender Registry

He received a conditional caution requiring him to complete a “thinking skills” course and avoid the Vale Drive park area, allowing him to avoid being placed on the sex offenders’ register.

Eyewitness Testimony

Testimony from eyewitnesses detailed their shock at discovering Ince naked in the woodland. One witness described jumping back in surprise, while another reported seeing a “skin-coloured thing hiding in the woods.”

Arrest and Initial Claims

Body-worn footage captured the moment of Ince’s arrest, where he acknowledged his employment as a police officer. He initially claimed he was simply going for a run and relieving himself, but his explanations were deemed implausible by the court.

Current Status

Ince, now employed by a utility company contractor, faces strict limitations on his movements and activities. The case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces and the importance of utilizing legal tools to ensure public safety.