A WORCESTERSHIRE based police officer has pleaded guilty to five counts of sexual assault by touching.
Former PC Mark Slade, 48, appeared at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on Monday, September 25.
Slade who was based at West Mercia Police headquarters in Hindlip pleaded guilty after sexually assaulting five victims by touching them in a sexual manner without consent, whilst on a night out in Maidstone in January.
He was suspended from the force in February, within 72 hours of his arrest by Kent Police.
He later resigned from West Mercia Police in September.
He will be sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court at a later date.
Deputy Chief Constable Alex Murray said: “This is an example of an officer who has no place in policing. I’m pleased that he has pleaded guilty and spared his victims the distress of a trial.
“I’d like to commend the victims for their courage in coming forward and thank our colleagues at Kent Police for pursing the allegations and securing a conviction.
“Rest assured we have the highest standards in policing, and officers like this will be investigated and brought to justice. The vast majority of officers and staff are excellent – and it is these few that we will have no hesitation in pursuing.”
