Former police officer denies sexually assaulting woman

Benjamin Mace, formerly of Cambridgeshire Police, was appearing before Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct said the alleged incident happened while the officer was off-duty (Dave Thompson/PA) (PA Archive)

A former police officer has denied sexually assaulting a woman who he is said to have met on a dating app.

Benjamin Mace, previously of Cambridgeshire Police, wore a suit as he appeared before Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

The 38-year-old, of Palmerston Road, Woodston, Peterborough, indicated a plea of not guilty to the single charge of sexual assault.

Mace, who has since resigned from the force, is accused of sexually touching a woman in Peterborough in 2019.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct said the alleged incident happened while Mace was off-duty.

He was bailed to appear before Chelmsford Crown Court for a plea hearing on March 16.