AN Avon and Somerset Police sergeant is alleged to have sexually assaulted a female and to have made sexually inappropriate comments to two females.

Following a criminal investigation, it was decided that no further action would be taken against the unnamed officer, who is currently suspended.

But they now face a misconduct hearing accused of breaching the Standards of Professional Behaviour for police officers.

The officer, who is currently identified only as PS X, will only be named publicly if found guilty of gross misconduct at the hearing at the force's headquarters in Portishead on Monday (December 11)

They are accused of:

  • sexually assaulting a female while off duty in December 2021;
  • making a number of inappropriate, sexual comments to a female while on duty between July 2019 and November 2021;
  • making a sexually inappropriate comment to a second female while off duty in December 2021.

In a document published before next week's hearing, it says: "A criminal investigation was conducted, but the evidential test was not met and the matter was filed as no further action. PS X is currently suspended from duty."

They are accused of breaching the Standards of Professional Behaviour for police, specifically discreditable conduct; authority, respect and courtesy; and honesty and integrity.

If proven, the allegations would amount to gross misconduct and the officer could potentially be dismissed.