Yahoo News Police officer appears in court accused of having sexual relationship with a victim of domestic abuse
A police officer has appeared in court over accusations he had a sexual relationship with a vulnerable domestic abuse victim.
PC James Ankrett, 38, is charged with misconduct in public office and improper exercise of police powers after meeting the woman he was supposed to be helping while on duty.
A court heard he allegedly struck up a relationship with the complainant between July 7, 2017 and May 5 last year during his time working for West Midlands Police.
Ankrett, of Hednesford, Staffs., was charged following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
On Thursday he appeared at Wolverhampton Crown Court where he pleaded not guilty to both charges.
Wearing a black suit, he spoke only to confirm his name, age, address, nationality and to enter his pleas during the 20 minute hearing.
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Judge Amjad Nawaz granted Ankrett bail and adjourned the case for a trial to take place at the same court on April 20 next year.
He said: "Your case has now been adjourned for trial. If you do not attended your trial, you will be committing another offence.”
