Former head of the Independent Office for Police Conduct Michael Lockwood charged with raping girl under 16

THE former head of the police’s watchdog has been charged with raping a girl under 16.

Michael Lockwood, 64, has been charged over nine sexual offences which are said to date back to the 1980s.

The 64-year-old has been charged with three counts of rape of a girl under 16, and three counts of indecent assault.

He used to lead the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

Lockwood denies the charges.

Rosemary Ainslie, head of the special crime division at the CPS, said: “After carefully considering all of the evidence provided to us by Humberside Police, we have authorised charges against Michael Lockwood, 64, for nine offences under the Sexual Offences Act 1956.

“Mr Lockwood has been charged with six counts of indecent assault and three offences of rape against a girl under the age of 16, alleged to have been committed during the 1980s.

“The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against Mr Lockwood are active and that he has the right to a fair trial.”

Emma Brooks, partner on the case, said: “Mr Lockwood strenuously denies all of these allegations from nearly 40 years ago.

“He will strongly defend his position and will continue to co-operate with the proceedings.”