Former police officer Oliver Banwell has been sentenced to four years in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting two female colleagues while on duty. The 25-year-old, who served with Avon and Somerset Police, targeted the women during separate incidents in 2021.
Banwell, previously based at Patchway Police Station near Bristol, was convicted following a trial at Bristol Crown Court. The court heard how he inappropriately touched one victim during a training exercise and sexually assaulted another while they were alone in a police van.
Pattern of Predatory Behaviour
Prosecutors revealed Banwell had shown a pattern of concerning behaviour towards female colleagues. Detective Chief Inspector Lucy Matthews described his actions as "a gross breach of trust" that had significantly impacted the victims.
"These were calculated assaults by someone who abused his position as a police officer," Matthews stated. "The courage shown by the victims in coming forward cannot be overstated."
Force Apologises to Victims
Avon and Somerset Police issued an apology to the women affected and confirmed Banwell had been dismissed from the force following misconduct proceedings. A spokesperson said: "We expect the highest standards of professional behaviour from all our officers and staff."
The case has raised fresh questions about vetting procedures and workplace culture within police forces across England. Banwell will be placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely and faces strict conditions upon his eventual release.
