Former Devon and Cornwall Police officer appears in court facing serious sexual assault charges

42-year-old Police Sergeant David Stansbury appeared at Bristol Magistrates Court today (April 19) for his time working at Devon and Cornwall Police

Bristol Magistrates Court
Published 19th Apr 2023

A former Devon and Cornwall police officer has appeared in court charged with serious sexual assaults - dating back to 2009.

David Stansbury who’s from Illminster in Somerset is currently an officer with Hertfordshire Police, and has been suspended from duty.

The officer used to work Devon & Cornwall Police appeared before Bristol Magistrates’ Court today (19 April) for the three charges of rape against a woman aged 16 years or over.

42-year-old Police Sergeant David Stansbury from Ilminster, Somerset is charged with the offences related to alleged incidents in Plymouth in 2009, whilst he was on duty.

He has been under investigation since being reported to Devon & Cornwall Police in September 2020.

PS Stansbury is currently a serving officer with Hertfordshire Police, having served with Devon & Cornwall Police from 2009-2011, and is currently suspended from duty.

He only spoke to confirm his name and address today at Bristol Magistrates Court and has been given unconditional bail.

He will appear at Bristol Crown Court on May 10.

Devon and Cornwall Police urge anyone with information to get in touch - you can also contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously.

If you or someone you know needs help or support, you can visit the NHS Website.

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