Sussex Police officer found not guilty of sexual assault charges in Brighton and Hove

A Sussex Police officer has been cleared of three charges of sexual assault by touching two female colleagues while on duty.

PC Lee Willis, aged 49, who was stationed with the Brighton and Hove division, stood trial at Southwark Crown Court after pleading not guilty to the accusations.

The alleged incidents were said to have occurred over several days in January and February 2023, while Willis was with the two women, separately, during their shifts.

The jury returned a verdict of not guilty on all counts on Friday, 9 May.

Following the allegations, Willis was suspended from his duties while a criminal investigation was carried out. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) referred the case, and a local investigation by the Professional Standards Department was conducted.

Although the criminal case has now concluded, the force has stated that misconduct proceedings will be considered.