Serving Greater Manchester Police detective is charged with rape

A serving Greater Manchester Police detective has been charged with rape. He will appear in court next year. The charge follows an investigation by the force's own Professional Standards Branch.

In a statement Greater Manchester Police said: "James Andrew Darnton 51, who is a Temporary Detective Inspector within the Public Protection Governance Unit, will appear at Liverpool Crown Court on Monday 10 July 2023.

"The charge relates to a report, received in October 2021, regarding an incident involving an adult female in 2009.

"The officer has been suspended. Misconduct proceedings will recommence following criminal proceedings."