Detective Acquitted in Assault by Penetration Case

Detective Constable Samuel Garside, 31, has been acquitted of assault by penetration concerning an incident involving a woman during a night out. Mr Garside had faced accusations of assaulting the woman in Aberaeron, Ceredigion, on 3 December 2021. At Swansea Crown Court, an interview with the victim, whose identity is legally protected, was presented. In the interview, she alleged that Mr Garside had grabbed her, pushed her into a doorway and put his hand beneath her shorts. The defendant, who resides in Cwmann, Carmarthenshire, denied the accusation. Nicola Powell KC, representing the defence, stated that Mr Garside was a serving Dyfed-Powys Police officer and possessed no previous convictions. She informed the jury that there were individuals who would attest to his good character. Mr Garside was arrested on 18 July 2023 and subsequently suspended from his duties in Ceredigion that same month. Huw Davies, the senior investigating officer, informed the court that “swift action was taken when the allegation was made.” The jury deliberated for approximately an hour before reaching a verdict. Judge Paul Thomas KC thanked the jury before discharging them. Following the trial, Dyfed-Powys Police stated that it was evaluating whether disciplinary proceedings would be initiated. The force also confirmed that Mr Garside remained suspended. Deputy Chief Constable Ifan Charles stated, “The force will now consider whether any formal action needs to be taken.” Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.