A police officer accused of telling a woman “I know the law” before an alleged sexual assault has been cleared by a jury. PC Fiona Anderson, 34, was found not guilty on both counts of sexual assault at Bristol Crown Court on Monday, September 28.
The allegations related to an incident in Cardiff in 2018, when Anderson was visiting the city. The alleged victim claimed she had “frozen” and had not consented to sexual acts.
Verdict and reaction
Anderson put both hands to her face as the verdict was read aloud, appearing overcome with relief in the dock. His Honour Judge Hart told her: “As far as these proceedings are concerned, you are free to leave the dock.”
During the trial, prosecutors said the Devon and Cornwall Police officer had been accused of performing oral sex on the woman without consent and touching her vagina while she was not consenting. The alleged victim said she had made it clear she did not want sexual contact and had told Anderson: “I don't want to have sex with you.”
Prosecution case
The jury heard prosecutor Emma Martin say in court that Anderson, from Exeter, Devon, had been described as “disgustingly drunk” and “was not taking no for an answer.” It was also said that Anderson, who has been a police officer since 2015, allegedly started to kiss and bite the complainant.
Ms Martin told the trial: “Fiona said these words to her: 'I know the law, I need you to say yes'.”
Defence and outcome
Anderson had denied both charges throughout the trial, claiming: “I was very drunk, so I can't recall a huge amount about that night. I remember leaving and going upstairs, and I vaguely remember getting into bed. I don't recall specifically saying I want to have sex.” She also denied having bitten the complainant.
Asked whether she would have performed oral sex, she replied: “I don't think I would have, no. Because I was really drunk.” Defence barrister Jenny Tallentire asked: “Would you have done anything if she was not wanting it?” Anderson replied: “No, I wouldn't have done anything if she didn't want it, absolutely not.”
Anderson also denied saying to the woman: “I know the law and I need you to say yes.” After the alleged assault, she told the jury she went to the bathroom to be sick and the complainant followed her to tell her to be quiet.
Ms Martin suggested: “You put your fingers on the outside of her vagina when you said, 'I need you to say yes. I know the law'.” Anderson replied: “I would never say anything like that.” She told jurors: “I know I wouldn't do anything that I didn't think she would consent to.”
Ms Tallentire said Anderson also “firmly denied” removing the alleged victim's knickers, and suggested to the complainant that she was not able to do so because of how much she drank. Anderson was initially arrested and bailed in March 2023 and was suspended by Devon and Cornwall Police. After deliberating, the jury acquitted Anderson of both counts.
