Hampshire Police Officers Suspended After Sex Offences Arrests

12 December 2014, 10:39 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

Three Hampshire police officers have been suspended from duty, after being arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit serious sexual offences against an adult victim.

They are among six men arrested yesterday (Thursday 11 December) in relation to the offences, alleged to have taken place on the Isle of Wight.

A Hampshire Police spokesman said:

"All six men arrested yesterday in relation to allegations of conspiracy to commit serious sexual offences on the Isle of Wight have been bailed until February 2015 pending further enquiries.

"The three police officers alleged to have been involved have been suspended from duty while the criminal investigation continues.

"This is still the early stages of the investigation and further updates will be provided when appropriate."

Hampshire Constabulary's Isle of Wight District commander, Superintendent Julie Fry, said:

"A key part of maintaining public trust and confidence is fulfilling our responsibility to investigate fully any allegation, irrespective of those involved.

"Specialist officers are providing care and support to the victim, and we would ask the public and the media to respect the welfare of everyone affected at this early stage of the investigation.''

The police spokesman would not confirm the gender of the victim or provide any further information about how the victim came into contact with the officers or the other suspects.

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire, Robin Jarman, said:

"The allegations made against officers from Hampshire Constabulary are extremely alarming. The Police and Crime Commissioner will look to the Constabulary to ensure that these accusations are taken very seriously and that a full and thorough investigation is conducted.

"Residents of Hampshire and Isle of Wight should be reassured that allegations of this nature are extremely rare and do not reflect the high standards delivered by the vast majority of constabulary employees."