West Yorkshire Police Officer Found Guilty of Rape

A serving West Yorkshire Police officer has been found guilty of raping a woman in 2002, three years before joining the force. PC Jo Lavender, 45, will be sentenced at York Crown Court on 3 November.

West Yorkshire Police Officer Found Guilty of Rape Following Trial at York Crown Court

A West Yorkshire Police officer has been convicted of raping a woman more than two decades ago, following a trial at York Crown Court.

PC Jo Lavender, 45, who was working in Leeds District before his suspension, was found guilty of one count of rape.

The offence took place in 2002, three years before Lavender joined West Yorkshire Police in 2005.

He is due to be sentenced on 3 November 2026.

Victim reported offence after more than 20 years

The woman came forward to police in December 2024 to report the offence, which had occurred approximately 22 years earlier.

Following an investigation and subsequent criminal proceedings, Lavender was convicted at York Crown Court.

West Yorkshire Police has acknowledged the courage shown by the victim in reporting the offence, particularly given that the man responsible had subsequently become a serving police officer.

Senior officer praises victim's bravery

Detective Chief Superintendent Tanya Wilkins, Head of West Yorkshire Police's Professional Standards Directorate, praised the woman's determination to seek justice.

She said:

"The victim has lived with the trauma of what PC Lavender did to her for two decades before coming forward to report this offence in 2024."

DCS Wilkins said she admired the bravery shown by the victim and recognised the additional difficulty of reporting an offence committed by someone who had since become a police officer.

Misconduct proceedings to continue

West Yorkshire Police has confirmed that internal misconduct proceedings will continue following the conviction.

The force intends to pursue action to ensure Lavender is barred from working in policing in the future.

DCS Wilkins also encouraged other victims of sexual offences to report their experiences, regardless of the position or occupation of the person responsible.

She stressed that reports would be taken seriously and investigated, including when allegations concern police officers.

Lavender remains due to appear for sentencing at York Crown Court on 3 November.

Source: West Yorkshire Police – official statement.

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