A female police officer from Devon and Cornwall Police has been acquitted of sexual assault charges at Bristol Crown Court. Fiona Anderson, 34, faced two counts of sexually assaulting another woman without her consent.

The alleged victim testified that she “froze” during the incidents and did not agree to the sexual acts. She also stated that she explicitly told Anderson she did not want to engage in sex. Prosecutor Emma Martin argued that Anderson disregarded these refusals and pressured the woman by saying, “I know the law, I need you to say yes.” Anderson denied making this statement.

Anderson, who was arrested in March 2023 and subsequently suspended from duty, maintained her innocence throughout the trial. After a deliberation, the jury found her not guilty on both counts. Following the verdict, Judge William Hart told Anderson she was free to leave the dock.

The case drew attention due to the nature of the allegations and the professional standing of the accused, highlighting challenges courts face in cases involving consent and sexual assault within institutions such as the police force.