Trainee GMP officer accused of sexually assaulting woman during lift home

A trainee police officer has pleaded not guilty to sexually assault. The Greater Manchester Police trainee was giving the woman a lift home at the time.

Ryan Pointon, 28, is accused of touching a woman's inner thigh on March 25 last year without her consent. Pointon appeared at Liverpool Magistrates Court this morning (Wednesday), where he pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Pointon, of The Meadows, Prestwich, Bury, was represented by Ben Berkson, who told the court the touching was over the clothing and was not sexual in nature. Pointon will next appear at Liverpool Crown Court on April 27 this year.

READ MORE: Man attacked after he gets out of car in eight-vehicle smash

The prosecution, represented by Vincent Yip, requested that two bail conditions be imposed for Pointon, including making no contact with the witness whatsoever, and not visiting her home address. District judge Timothy Boswell said that as criminal proceedings are now active, these bail conditions were appropriate.

Judge Boswell concluding this hearing, said: "You have elected to be tried in a crown court and the next hearing will take place on April 27.

"On that day you will formally enter this plea and make arrangements. You are on bail so you are to make no contact with the girl whatsoever and don't go to her address."