Former NSW Police detective Glen Coleman is accused of raping a young woman whose complaint he was investigating, sexually touching her without consent, and sending unsolicited intimate photos. The 57-year-old detective, who was part of the child abuse and sex crime squad, allegedly committed these offences against a 19-year-old in early 2022. The alleged incidents took place inside police vehicles and at the Windsor police station. Coleman is also accused of soliciting intimate photos from the woman and offering her money for sexual favors.
During the opening remarks to the jury panel, Crown prosecutor Kate Nightingale summarized the prosecution’s case against Coleman. The former detective allegedly met his accuser while investigating her complaint and went on to sexually assault her on multiple occasions. The charges against him include three counts of sexual intercourse without consent, six counts of sexual touching without consent, and one count of misconduct by a public office holder. Coleman pleaded not guilty to all charges and appeared in court dressed in a white-striped black suit and navy collared shirt.
The trial began after the former detective entered a plea of not guilty. The proceedings are taking place in Penrith District Court before Judge Robert Montgomery and a jury comprised of nine men and three women. The trial is expected to last for two to three weeks as witnesses are called to testify and evidence is presented. The allegations against Coleman paint a disturbing picture of abuse of power and breach of trust, as he is accused of taking advantage of his position within the police force to commit these crimes.
The accusations against Coleman include incidents of sexual assault taking place inside police vehicles and at a police station, highlighting the brazen nature of the alleged offenses. The former detective is alleged to have sent intimate photos to the woman and requested the same from her, as well as offering money in exchange for sexual favors. The prosecution is building a case against Coleman based on these actions, which are seen as a betrayal of the trust placed in law enforcement officers to uphold the law and protect the community.
As the trial proceeds, more details are likely to emerge about the events leading up to the charges against Coleman and the impact of his alleged actions on the victim. The case highlights the importance of accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies to ensure that officers are held to a high standard of conduct and are not above the law. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched as it has the potential to shape public perceptions of the police force and its commitment to addressing cases of misconduct and abuse of power when they arise.
