"Multiple potential victims identified" in probe into alleged serious sexual offences by former PSNI officer

Northern Ireland's police watchdog says "multiple potential victims have been identified" as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged serious sexual offences by a former PSNI officer.

The Ombudsman has provided an update saying the “scale and complexity” of the investigation has become clear.

The former officer was arrested by Ombudsman investigators in December 2025 on suspicion of committing more than 10 non-recent offences, including rape, other sexual offences, and misconduct in public office.

These are alleged to have occurred between 2000 and 2009, while he was a serving officer.

Police Ombudsman Chief Executive Hugh Hume said, “We have identified multiple potential victims, together with a substantial number of witnesses. We have also seized a large volume of material, including a significant amount of digital evidence, during a search operation.”

He continued, "We are now working to ensure that this investigation is carried out in the most timely manner possible."

He said the Ombudsman is therefore allocating "all available resources."

“Our resources are finite and this means that the timeliness of our other casework may be affected. However, this is the reality of balancing the demands of our complaints across the Office with the need to progress this complex and expanding investigation. If we do not prioritise now, in the long term we risk compromising the service we provide to complainants and victims, and public confidence in this office and the PSNI.”

Mr Hume has appealed for anyone who has concerns about allegations of this nature to contact the ombudsman’s office.