A crime scene investigator for Essex Police has denied committing sexual assault while he was at work.

Kevin Dowley, 61, of Burgess Avenue, Stanford-le-Hope, appeared at Basildon Magistrates’ Court on Thursday charged with two counts of sexual assault.

It is alleged that he assaulted two women, each on different occasions.

The first alleged assault dates back to July 16, 2016 where it is claimed that he intentionally touched a woman aged over 16 without her consent in Brentwood.

The second allegation is that he intentionally touched another woman aged over 16 without her consent in Grays on August 20, 2016.

Wearing a black suit with a navy-blue tie and sporting a cropped greying hair cut, the crime scene investigator stood in the dock and spoke only to confirm his name, address, his nationality and his pleas.

Dowley denied the charges. Magistrate, Michael Winter, said: “Your first hearing at crown court will be a plea and trial preparation hearing.

“Until that time, you are granted unconditional bail. If you commit a crime while on bail your sentence will be greater.”

Dowley is set to appear at Basildon Crown Court on April 26 where a trial date will be set.

He was a police officer for the Metropolitan Police before joining Essex Police in 2013 as a crime scene investigator.

His role was to collecting and analysing physical evidence , such as gathering DNA samples from a crime scene.

Essex Police suspended him from the role when he was charged.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “He was suspended from his role with us following his arrest.

“We treat all allegations of sexual assault very seriously.”