A police officer has pleaded guilty to five counts of sexual assault by touching.
He appeared Maidstone Magistrates’ Court today, Monday 25 September 2023.
PC Mark Slade, 48, based at West Mercia Police headquarters in Hindlip, Worcestershire, resigned from the force in September 2023. He was suspended in February 2023, within 72 hours of his arrest by Kent Police.
During a night out in Maidstone in January 2023 Slade sexually assaulted five victims by touching them in a sexual manner without their consent.
He will be sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court on a date yet to be confirmed.
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.”
