Taunton Deane Council officer denies indecent assault charge (From Somerset County Gazette)

Taunton Deane Council officer denies indecent assault charge

6:10pm Thursday 5th July 2012 in News

A COUNCIL officer in a centuries-old post has appeared in court accused of indecently assaulting a young girl.

Michael Coy, 64, of Wellsprings Road, Taunton, denies the charge which is alleged to have taken place over 25 years ago.

Mr Coy is currently suspended from his ceremonial role as Sergeant at Mace at Taunton Deane Council, which involved accompanying the Mayor at many events.

The Sergeant of Mace is historically responsible for the security of the insignia whenever the Mayor wears the chains of office.

Taunton Deane Magistrates’ Court heard yesterday (July 4) that Mr Coy, a former youth club leader, is accused of committing the offence against a girl aged under 14.

The court was given details of the alleged incident, although the complainant cannot be named for legal reasons.

Mr Coy, who indicated that he intends to plead not guilty, was told he will stand trial at Taunton Crown Court at a later date.

He was ordered to re-appear before magistrates on Wednesday, August 29.

He was released on bail on condition he does not contact the complainant or another named woman and does not work with children aged under 18.

A Taunton Deane Council spokeswoman said Mr Coy had been suspended as Sergeant at Mace following his arrest “pending the outcome of legal proceedings”.