Probationary policeman launched 'horrendous' sex attack after night out

A probationary police officer launched a 'horrendous' sex attack after getting into bed with a woman following a night out with friends. PC James Barrett-Barnett is due to be sentenced after his conviction for sexual assault and will face misconduct proceedings.

The 25-year-old, from Walsall, had worked for Bedfordshire Police at the time of the attack. His victim told police he sexually assaulted her and she did not consent. While PC Barrett-Barnett admitted his actions - but claimed the encounter had been consensual.

The rookie PC was immediately suspended by the force after the allegations were reported in 2022. He has now been convicted of two counts of sexual assault and assault by penetration following a trial at Huntingdon Crown Court in Cambridgeshire. Misconduct proceedings against PC Barrett-Barnett, from Walsall Road, will now progress.

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Deputy Chief Constable Dan Vajzovic said: “There should be no place in policing for male violence against women. Barrett-Barnett had only been a probationary officer for a short time and had just completed his initial training when he committed this horrendous offence.

"I commend the victim who showed great bravery to give evidence during the trial which ultimately brought him to justice. We will never accept this sort of behaviour and take all reports extremely seriously.

“We will continue take robust action against anyone who acts in this way or acts in a way which betrays the trust and confidence that the public should have in policing.” Barrett-Barnett will be sentenced on May 31.

For more information on what Bedfordshire Police is doing to tackle male violence against women and girls, you can visit the dedicated webpage. Reports of sexual assault or abuse, even if non-recent, can be made to the police by calling 101. Always call 999 in an emergency.

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