PETER Lower, 51-years-old from Bristol, has today (February 27), appeared at Bristol Magistrates’ Court charged with three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault by penetration, five counts of actual bodily harm and false imprisonment.

The charges relate to one adult female victim and date from February – November 2009.

Lower is a sergeant with Avon and Somerset police but is currently suspended from duty.

The charges are unrelated to his professional role as a police officer.

Lower was released on bail and is due before Bristol Crown Court on Tuesday April 7, 2015 for a preliminary hearing.

Avon and Somerset Police said it would be inappropriate for them to comment further as the court process is now underway.