A police officer serving in Croydon’s area command is in the dock himself this morning, accused of sexual offences going back more than 30 years.
PC Anthony Rowley, 51, was due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court charged with four counts of sexual assault on a girl under 14 years old.
The allegations, which were reported to police in May last year, relate to one girl and are said to have occurred in Croydon between 1988 and 1989.
Rowley was arrested on June 1 last year and released on bail. He was charged on February 27. He has been suspended from duty.
The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards are aware and are conducting a misconduct investigation alongside the criminal investigation.
Croydon Borough Commander Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said: “I recognise the serious concern this news will have, and I can assure local people that officers acted quickly on receipt of the allegations and that inquiries are ongoing.
“It would be inappropriate for me to comment further at this time. It is imperative that no information or material is shared that could prejudice court proceedings.”
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