A POLICE officer in Bradford sexually assaulted a woman and then tried to evade justice by factory restoring his phone.

PC Jonathan Holmes, 24, who was based in the Bradford district with West Yorkshire Police, was found guilty at Leeds Crown Court of sexual assault and perverting the course of justice.

He was cleared of attempted rape and another charge of perverting the course of justice.

Holmes was sentenced today to two years and two months behind bars, as well as being placed on the Sex Offenders Register for 10 years.

The sexual assault charge relates to an offence committed against a woman in the Bradford area three years ago.

PC Jonathan HolmesPC Jonathan Holmes (Image: West Yorkshire Police) Holmes was off duty at the time of the offence.  

The 24-year-old had his mobile seized and examined by police when he was arrested, and he was immediately suspended from duty.

It was found he had factory-restored his phone a short time before his arrest.  

Detective Chief Superintendent Nicola Bryar, Head of West Yorkshire Police’s Professional Standards Directorate, said: “The victim has shown immense courage throughout this judicial process.

"Holmes sought to hamper the police investigation and has put the victim through the ordeal of a trial by refusing to admit the sexual offence he committed against her.

"He has now been made to face justice for his actions.  

“Holmes was immediately suspended from duty following his arrest.

"The misconduct investigation will now resume in relation to this officer with a view to him being prevented from gaining any further employment in policing upon his release from prison.  

“We need the public to have the confidence to report sexual offences, regardless of the occupation of the perpetrator.

"I would urge anyone who has been a victim to please report it.

"I hope that this prosecution shows that we do listen and will take action."