Officers disciplined in rape case

Ex-sergeant Paul Banfield faces further allegations

Six police officers have been disciplined following an investigation into the case of a police sergeant who was jailed for rape.

The officers were subjected to disciplinary action ranging from "words of advice" to a formal written warning.

Two years ago, Sergeant Paul Banfield was jailed for 18 years after being convicted of two charges of rape, one of burglary with intent to rape, and five charges of indecent assault.

Cambridgeshire Police took the disciplinary action following an investigation into the Banfield affair by the Metropolitan Police.

'No freemasonry'

Deputy Assistant Commissioner William Griffiths led the inquiry, which examined a range of "procedural and process issues."

Investigators interviewed 23 officers, including three who are now retired.

Ben Gunn says lessons have been learnt

The report covered areas including corruption, masonic influence and the conduct of other officers involved in investigations into Banfield's activities.

The report said: "The conclusion of the inquiry is that there is no evidence to support any allegation of corruption or influence of freemasonry in respect of any officer."

However there was evidence that police procedure had not been followed and investigations had not been supervised properly.

Cambridgeshire Chief Constable Ben Gunn said: "A number of recommendations have been made. We take those recommendations seriously.

"Ex-sergeant Banfield was found guilty of the most serious sexual offences, some committed whilst he was on duty.

'Suffered appallingly'

"As the Metropolitan Police report notes, there is no evidence to suggest he was helped or protected by fellow officers.

"Banfield let down his colleagues, his friends and family, and the community within which he worked.

"His victims suffered at his hands appallingly and my sincere apologies go out to them."

Earlier this year, police said they were investigating further allegations of indecent assault and attempted rape made against Banfield.