A police officer from Avon and Somerset Police is set to appear in court tomorrow, facing multiple charges including rape, sexual assault, and coercive and controlling behaviour.
PC Stephen Phipps, 43, based in Bridgwater, will appear before Taunton Magistrates’ Court following allegations made by his victim while he was off duty. He was arrested and subsequently suspended from duty in February 2023 after the victim reported the offences to the force.
DCI Marsh added that, due to the serious nature of the charges, the case was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which ruled the circumstances were suitable for local investigation by Avon and Somerset Police.
In addition to the criminal proceedings, Avon and Somerset’s Professional Standards Department is conducting a parallel investigation into possible breaches of professional conduct standards.
DCI Marsh stressed the importance of ensuring that the legal process is followed, urging the public not to publish or comment on any material that could prejudice the upcoming court proceedings.
PC Phipps is due to appear in court tomorrow to face the charges.
