Inquiry into handling of PCSO sex assault claims

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has launched an investigation into how Humberside Police handled allegations that a police community support officer (PCSO) sexually assaulted a woman.

The woman claimed the PCSO had engaged in a sex act while on duty when he visited her home in January.

Humberside Police arrested the PCSO on suspicion of sexual assault and misconduct in a public office and made a referral to the IPCC.

However, when the PCSO resigned in early February, meaning no disciplinary proceedings could follow, the IPCC decided to end its supervision leaving the criminal investigation to progress.

The Humberside Police investigation concluded without the matter being referred to the Crown Prosecution Service for consideration of criminal charges.

The woman complained that the incident was not investigated properly, the conclusion that she consented to the sex act was entirely wrong and she was not informed formally of the outcome.

As a result, the IPCC instructed Humberside Police to refer the matter to them for an independent investigation to be conducted.

IPCC Commissioner Nicholas Long said: “This is the second recent case where allegations of sexual assault have been made against a PCSO. In the other case which was supervised by the IPCC, PCSO Gary Hastings was convicted and sentenced to ten years imprisonment for child sex offences.

“In this case a woman has real concerns about how she was dealt with and how the investigation was conducted. I believe it is in the public interest for the IPCC to independently investigate the handling of this case so we can reassure ourselves and the public that either the police are taking such allegations seriously and investigating thoroughly or that lessons can be learnt to ensure that does happen in future.”