Former Welwyn Hatfield Safer Neighbourhood sergeant David Stansbury has appeared in court charged with three counts of rape while on duty with Devon and Cornwall Police.
Sergeant David Stansbury, 42, appeared before Bristol Magistrates’ Court this afternoon (April 19) accused of raping a woman aged 16 or over.
Charges allege that he raped the woman in Plymouth between October 23 and November 30, 2009.
Stansbury, who wore a face mask as he arrived at and left the court building, was not asked to enter a plea to the three charges against him.
The officer, dressed in a black suit, white shirt and dark blue tie, spoke to confirm his name, date of birth and address to the court.
District Judge Lynne Matthews adjourned the case to Bristol Crown Court.
She told the defendant: “I grant you unconditional bail until you must appear at the crown court at Bristol on May 10.”
May Li appeared for the prosecution during the short hearing, while Jack Barros represented Stansbury.
Devon and Cornwall Police previously said the charges related to alleged incidents in Plymouth in 2009 while he was on duty.
The force added that the allegations have been under investigation since being reported to them in September 2020.
Stansbury, of Ilminster, Somerset, was an officer with Devon and Cornwall Police between 2009 and 2011.
Hertfordshire police have confirmed he was suspended from duty in October 2021.
A police spokesperson said: "If you have any information you feel may assist this investigation, please contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling freephone 0800 555 111."
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