A former UK police officer who was banned from policing has been charged with sexual offences against two women. Matthew Stewart, 31, from Carlisle, faces charges of rape, sexual assault and two counts of intentional strangulation.
He is due to appear at North Cumbria Magistrates' Court on August 24, 2026. Cumbria Constabulary said the charges stem from a criminal investigation that began in April 2025 after reports were made to police. The alleged offences relate to two separate victims, who are receiving ongoing specialist support.
Career and misconduct proceedings
Stewart worked for Cumbria Constabulary as a Special Constable, Police Community Support Officer and Police Constable between 2015 and 2024 before leaving the force in 2024. After leaving, he faced gross misconduct proceedings and was barred from working in policing.
Cumbria Constabulary said reports of the alleged sexual offences were made after those proceedings. The force added that the alleged offences took place while Stewart was off duty and that a criminal investigation was launched immediately, leading to the charges.
Police response and support for victims
Assistant Chief Constable Dave Stalker of Cumbria Constabulary said: “Policing will not tolerate any type of sexual offending. Reporting rape and sexual offences can be daunting, but victims and survivors do not have to face it alone.”
“We encourage anyone who has been affected to come forward and speak with us. You will be listened to, treated with respect and supported throughout. Our officers work closely with specialist partners to ensure victims receive the care, advice and support they need from the moment they come forward.”
Cumbria Constabulary urges anyone who has experienced a rape or sexual offence to report it by calling 101, via the force's website, or calling 999 in an emergency. Victims not ready to speak to police can also seek support from specialist organisations, including The Bridgeway's 24/7 support helpline.
