A police officer is set to stand trial, facing allegations of engaging in a sexual relationship with a crime victim he encountered in the course of his duties.
Paul Higgins is additionally charged with dishonesty in relation to the affair, allegedly providing false information about the relationship to his supervisors and independent investigators and persuading the woman to corroborate his fabricated account.
During a plea and trial preparation hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, the South Wales Police officer, Paul Higgins, entered a not guilty plea to charges that include the improper exercise of police powers and privileges by a constable, attempting to obstruct the course of public justice, and three counts of unauthorized access to computer equipment.
These alleged offenses are reported to have taken place in the Aberdare area between June 2020 and December 2022.
A trial date has been scheduled for August 5th of next year, presided over by Her Honour Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke, with an estimated duration of six to seven days.
Paul Higgins, aged 41 and residing in Hengoed, Caerphilly, maintains his innocence regarding the charges and has been granted unconditional bail until the trial takes place.
