Police Officer Charged with Rape Faces Court
West Yorkshire Cop in Hot Water Over 2016 Assault
Police Sergeant Ben Lister, 35, appeared at Bradford Crown Court today. The West Yorkshire officer, currently suspended amid serious allegations, only spoke to confirm his date of birth. He was charged on March 15 with rape and sexual assault connected to an incident on August 29, 2016.
Alleged Victim Claims Assault After Night Out
Prosecutor Richard Davies detailed the case, explaining Lister had been out drinking with friends. The group returned to an address where the alleged victim was also present. It’s claimed Lister raped her and digitally assaulted her without consent. Despite messaging back and forth afterward, Mr Davies pointed out, “As a serving police officer he knows not to be as stupid as to contact her.”
Judge Grants Privacy for Accused Officer
Deputy Senior District Judge Tan Ikram ruled Lister’s address will be kept private to protect his family. Defence lawyer Suzanne Payne said Lister lives with his partner and young child and revealing his address “could cause harm to his family.” Payne called the request “exceptional” but necessary given the circumstances. Judge Ikram agreed, adding, “I make this exception from giving his address, with heightened concern around offences of this type, especially when the alleged perpetrator is a serving police officer.”
Next Hearing Set for April 21
The case has been sent to Bradford Crown Court. Lister was granted unconditional bail and will next appear on April 21 at 9.30am.
