A serving Metropolitan Police officer has been accused of sexually assaulting two people whilst off-duty. Inspector Michael Richards was charged with two counts of sexual assault by touching on Sunday, May 25 following his arrest eight months earlier.
The allegations relate to two incidents involving a man and woman, both over the age of 18, on September 17, 2024. He was taken into custody later that day.
Inspector Richards appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court today (Monday, June 23) and was bailed by the judge. He will later appear at Southwark Crown Court on Monday, July 21.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed he will remain suspended from his position in the Learning and Development department in the meantime. The Metropolitan Police’s Directorate of Professional Standards has also been informed.
A statement issued by the force this evening reads: “A serving Metropolitan Police officer has appeared at court following sexual assault charges. Inspector Michael Richards, attached to Learning and Development, was charged with two counts of sexual assault by touching on Sunday, 25 May.
“He appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 23 June. He was bailed to next appear at Southwark Crown Court on Monday, 21 July.
“He remains suspended from duty. Insp Richards was arrested on Wednesday 17, September on suspicion of sexual assault by touching.
“The allegations relate to a male and a female victim, both over the age of 18. They are alleged to have taken place on the same day as the arrest while Insp Richards was off-duty. The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards is aware.
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