Matthew Stewart, a 31-year-old former Cumbria Police officer from Carlisle, has pleaded not guilty to charges including rape, sexual assault and two counts of intentional strangulation.
Prosecutors say the alleged incidents occurred both while he was on duty and when he was off duty. Stewart was released on conditional bail ahead of a hearing in January, and a provisional trial date is set for 29 November 2027.
He denies the allegations and remains presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Matthew Stewart, 31, of Carlisle, has pleaded not guilty to charges that include rape, sexual assault and two counts of intentional strangulation.
Allegations and court appearance: Stewart appeared at the city's Crown Court where he entered not guilty pleas to all counts. Prosecutors allege the offences occurred while he was employed by Cumbria Police and at times when he was off duty.
Police career: Stewart served with Cumbria Police from 2015 until 2024 in roles including special constable, community support officer and police constable.
Bail and next steps: He was released on conditional bail ahead of a further hearing at the same court in January. A provisional trial date has been set for 29 November 2027.
Legal note: The charges are allegations and Mr Stewart has pleaded not guilty. He remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Reported by BBC Cumbria; proceedings handled by HM Courts Service.
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