Officer arrested over sex claims

A Northumbria Police officer has been arrested and questioned over allegations that he sexually assaulted female suspects.

An investigation is under way involving the force's own Professional Standards Department and the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).

The officer involved, who has not been officially named, was released on bail pending further inquiries.

The 41-year-old has also been suspended from duty.

Northumbria Police said in a statement: "We can confirm that a 41-year-old officer is currently suspended pending the outcome of an investigation."

The IPCC said in a statement: "The IPCC can confirm that as part of an ongoing managed investigation a Northumbria Police officer has been arrested in connection with allegations of serious sexual offences and misconduct in public office.

"The officer has been released on police bail and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage."