Senior police officer denies sex assault charge
BBCA senior Devon and Cornwall Police officer has denied sexually assaulting a woman.
Temporary Supt Robert James Saunders, known as Jim, from Bodmin, appeared in Plymouth Magistrates' Court.
The 48-year-old spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, address and enter his not guilty plea.
The charge alleged on 10 June 2022 in Exeter he "intentionally touched a woman aged 16 or over and that touching was sexual when she did not consent and you did not reasonably believe that she was consenting".
District Judge Angela Brereton declined jurisdiction and sent the case to the crown court for trial.
Saunders, who was released on unconditional bail, was due to appear before Taunton Crown Court on 2 November.
Devon and Cornwall Police said Saunders had been suspended.
