A THAMES Valley Police Officer will stand trial for attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child.
Cerrig Shardlow, who has been suspended from duty in his role as a sergeant based at Slough Police Station, had his first appearance at Reading Magistrates Court today (April 5).
It is the Crown’s case that that the 44-year-old between May 30, 2022 and June 8, 2022 attempted to communicate with a girl he allegedly believed was 13-years-old.
READ MORE: Brawl in courtroom as murder verdict read out still being investigated
The conversations allegedly surrounded asking the person, which turned out to be an undercover officer, about their ‘sexual experiences and physical appearances’.
Shardlow, of Lime Close in Wokingham, pleaded not guilty to the offence.
It was heard that the case with an ‘either way offence’ and could be tried at the Magistrates court. However, Shardlow opted for a trial with a jury at Reading Crown Court.
His next hearing will be on May 5 and he will remain on unconditional bail during this time.
READ MORE: Person tragically struck by a train near Reading
As Shardlow is a Thames Valley Police officer, the court that it is likely his case will be transferred away from Reading Crown Court for trial.
However, this will be up to the judge presiding over the hearing next month.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article