A former PCSO has been jailed after falsely claiming that he was assaulted by a suspected burglar.

Christopher Chadwick, 22, who was based in Maidenhead as a PCSO, reported that on August 14, 2023 he had seen a suspect for a burglary, and had pursued him. During the pursuit, he said that he had been assaulted by the male.

The suspect was charged with burglary and assault after Chadwick released a statement. He pleaded guilty to these charges and was sentenced to one month in prison.

After the suspect was convicted, a review of the CCTV footage showed that Chadwick was not attacked.

Following an investigation by Thames Valley Police a former PCSO has been jailed for perverting the course of justice in Maidenhead.

Deputy Chief Constable Ben Snuggs said: “Thames Valley Police makes it abundantly clear to all who join the force that honesty and integrity are the cornerstones of our public service.

“The actions of the former PCSO were completely unacceptable and led to someone being convicted and sentenced for an assault he did not commit.”

After it was determined that Chadwick made a false claim of assault, a file of evidence was sent to the Crown Prosecution Service and a charge of perverting the course of justice was authorised.

On 20 April 2024, Chadwick resigned from the Force and as such is no longer employed by Thames Valley Police.

The former PCSO was charged on 1 May and he pleaded guilty to the offence on September 13.

Christopher Chadwick appeared at Reading Crown Court on Tuesday (5/11) to one year and eight months’ imprisonment.