A FORMER West Mercia Police officer who was based at the force’s headquarters in Hindlip has pleaded guilty to five counts of sexual assault by touching.
PC Mark Slade, 48, appeared at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on Monday (September 25).
He resigned from the force earlier this month after being suspended in February, within 72 hours of his arrest by Kent Police.
During a night out in Maidstone in January, 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 Con 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.”
