The disturbing and heinous crimes of Craig Winston, a former officer with Gloucestershire Police, were only brought to light due to the bravery of his victims. Winston, aged 36, was found guilty of multiple serious offences including rape and controlling and coercive behaviour, in a trial held at Shrewsbury Crown Court.
The offences took place while Winston was off duty, during his probationary period after joining the force in January 2022. Detective Sergeant Ed Garlick, the investigating officer, emphasised the immense courage it took for the victims to come forward and speak out against a serving police officer. “Both victims should be commended for their courage in coming forward to report these matters,” he stated.
Winston was convicted on two counts of rape, one count of causing a female to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity, one count of engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour against a woman, and one count of sexual assault by penetration against a second victim. He was acquitted of four other charges.
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The investigation revealed that some of the offences occurred while the victims were sleeping or believed to be sleeping. An examination of Winston’s electronic devices uncovered a disturbing interest in abhorrent sexual acts, and it was found that he coerced and manipulated one victim into participating in these acts.
Following the allegations made in October 2022, Winston was arrested, suspended from duty, and subsequently resigned from Gloucestershire Police in February 2023. The case was initially referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which returned it to the force for investigation. The Criminal Investigation Department pursued the charges, which were authorized by the Crown Prosecution Service.
Deputy Chief Constable Katy Barrow-Grint expressed her shock at Winston’s actions and praised the victims’ resilience over the past two years. She assured the public that there is no place in policing for individuals like Winston and confirmed that misconduct proceedings would be initiated to have him placed on the police barred list. Winston is scheduled to be sentenced at Shrewsbury Crown Court on February 6, 2026.
This case sends a strong message that allegations of criminal wrongdoing by police officers will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted, reinforcing public trust in the justice system.