Derbyshire Chief Fire Officer Cleared Of Rape

4 February 2015, 12:59 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

Derbyshire's Chief Fire Officer, Sean Frayne, has been found not guilty of rape.

He's been on trial for the last week after a 38-year-old woman accused him of raping her in a pub in 2006.

But, the jury took just 14 minutes to clear him of the charge.

48-year-old Mr Franye, who used to live in Etwall, wiped away tears as he left Derby Crown Court with his wife.

His lawyer criticised the decision to prosecute Frayne instead of launching a blackmail inquiry after it emerged that a friend of the alleged victim wrote to him suggesting she may "avoid publicity'' for a substantial out-of-court payment.

Mr Frayne was arrested in 2013 when a formal complaint was made to police.

After hewas cleared Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service released a statement to Capital: "Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Authority acknowledges that the last year must have been difficult for everyone involved.

"As a matter of urgency, members of the fire and rescue authority will now meet and further information will be issued when available.

"Meanwhile, interim arrangements remain in place for the on-going leadership of the service, ensuring the continuing safety of the people of Derbyshire.''