Merseyside PC questioned over rape allegation

Oct 17 2007 by Vicky Anderson, Liverpool Daily Post

A POLICE officer from Merseyside has been arrested and questioned on suspicion of rape, common assault and criminal damage.

The 39-year-old male constable, who is from the Knowsley area, was placed on “restricted duties” and released without charge following the arrest, Merseyside Police said. He has been bailed until December 6.

The allegation was made while the constable was off-duty. He was arrested on October 10.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has been informed about the arrest but has yet to decide whether it will investigate.

A spokesman for Merseyside Police said: “A Merseyside police officer has been arrested following complaints of rape, common assault and criminal damage. The arrest was made following allegations about off-duty incidents.

“The male constable, 39, who lives in the Knowsley area, has been bailed without charge until December 6.

“He has been placed on restricted duties whilst the investigation is carried out.

“The matter is being referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).”

Last night a spokesman said “restricted duties” involved no contact with the public. He would not confirm how long the constable had been with the force.

A spokeswoman for the IPCC said: “The IPCC is aware of this matter and is currently considering what level of involvement it will have in this investigation.”

Any IPCC investigation would take place after the conclusion of any criminal investigation or subsequent court case and would examine whether any disciplinary regulations may have been breached by the constable.

Rape, sexual assault and serious assault are some of the offences that Merseyside Police will automatically refer to the IPCC, should an employee face such accusations.