Former Cumbria police officer charged with rape appears in court
Facing charges relating to incidents while off duty
A former Cumbria police officer has appeared in court accused of serious offences, including raping one woman and sexually assaulting another while off duty.
The accused, Matthew Stewart, aged 31, from Carlisle, worked for Cumbria Constabulary between 2015 and 2024, eventually leaving policing in 2024.
Stewart's court appearance is part of a police investigation that began in April 2025.
At a Carlisle Magistrates' Court hearing, Stewart faced four charges relating to alleged incidents during his employment with Cumbria police.
Among the charges are one count of rape and one count of sexual assault involving two separate women, along with two charges of intentional strangulation.
As the rape charge is classified as "indictable only," it must be heard at a crown court.
Stewart confirmed his name, date of birth, and address during the 13-minute hearing but did not enter formal pleas.
He indicated to the district judge that he plans to plead not guilty.
District judge Philip Holden has transferred the case to Carlisle Crown Court, with a plea and trial preparation hearing scheduled for 21st September.
Stewart has been released on bail, subject to conditions that prevent any contact with the complainants.