'I know the law, I need you to say yes': Devon and Cornwall female PC goes on trial for sexual assault

From the Newshound archive · first published 21 September 2026 · last updated 22 September 2026.

Devon and Cornwall Police constable Fiona Anderson, 33, was "disgustingly drunk" when she repeatedly ignored a woman's refusals during a night out in Cardiff in 2018, Bristol Crown Court heard. Prosecutor Emma Martin told jurors Anderson was "not taking no for an answer," kissing, biting and becoming "rougher" with the victim before performing oral sex on her without consent. Anderson denies two counts of sexual assault and claims her memory of the night is "a bit fuzzy."

The victim felt she 'could not turn to anyone' after the assault because Anderson was a serving police officer.

Prosecutor Emma Martin told the jury: 'It's crossed the line from a one-sided sexual advance to sexual offending.'

Anderson was initially arrested and bailed in March 2023 and has since been suspended by Devon and Cornwall Police.