A former Bedfordshire Police control room worker who tried to intimidate his victim by claiming police would not believe her has been jailed for seven years for rape and intentional strangulation.
Harry Blumire, 24, was working as a radio agent in the force control room when he was arrested in June 2024 for offences committed while off-duty in Northamptonshire.
Bedfordshire Police immediately suspended Blumire after his arrest, then formally dismissed him from the force in September 2024.
Blumire, of Slade Crescent, Kettering, had denied the charges but was convicted following a nine-day trial at Leicester Crown Court of rape, sexual assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and intentional strangulation.
The offences were all committed against a woman in her 20s between August 2023 and May 2024, leading to his seven-year sentence on Wednesday (7 October).
Abuse of power
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Bedfordshire Police assistant chief constable John Murphy condemned Blumire’s attempt to use his official position to silence the victim.
“Blumire had been working as a radio agent for less than a year when the allegations came to light and was immediately suspended, then later swiftly dismissed.
“He had tried to use his role as a member of police staff to dissuade the victim from coming forward by telling he she wouldn’t be believed. That could not be further from the truth.
“Policing has the very highest standards and will not tolerate any violence against women and girls. We will continue to relentlessly target perpetrators, regardless of their background or role,” said Murphy.
Investigation commended
Detective constable Gina Rosignoli of Northamptonshire Police praised the victim’s bravery throughout the multi-year investigation
She said: “First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the immense bravery of the survivor in this case.
“The investigation has taken more than two years to reach trial, and throughout that time she has shown remarkable strength and determination.
“Her courage in reporting the offence, supporting the police investigation, and giving evidence in court should be highly commended.
“I hope the verdict provides her with some sense of justice and allows her to move forward with her life.
“I hope this outcome reassures other victims of sexual offences that they will be listened to, supported and taken seriously when they come forward to report what has happened to them.
“Violence against women and girls has rightly been recognised by policing as a national emergency.
“Tackling these offences remains a priority for Northamptonshire Police, and we will continue to support victims, pursue perpetrators and work to make Northamptonshire a safer place for women and girls.
“Finally, I would like to thank everyone involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case for their dedication and professionalism in helping secure this conviction.”
