A Sussex Police constable is set to make his initial court appearance on charges of police corruption, following an investigation conducted by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). PC Joseph Aylett, 27, who is stationed at Crawley, will face the charges before Medway Magistrates’ Court.

The charges stem from an incident that occurred in July 2022 on Crawley High Street. It is alleged that PC Aylett allowed a suspect involved in an assault case to go free without taking any legal action, constituting corrupt or improper exercise of police powers and privileges, in violation of Section 26 of the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015.

The IOPC launched an inquiry into the allegations and, after concluding its investigation in June 2023, forwarded the evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). Following a thorough review, the CPS authorised the corruption charge against PC Aylett.

At this time, Sussex Police have not released an official statement regarding the case, which is expected to attract significant public attention from both local communities and law enforcement oversight groups.

As this is an ongoing legal matter, further details will likely emerge as the case progresses through the judicial system. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.