A Carlisle man will appear at court charged with rape and sexual assault following a police investigation.
Matthew Stewart, aged 31, will appear at North Cumbria Magistrates’ Court on 24 August 2026.
Stewart has been charged with:
- Rape
- Sexual assault
- Two counts of intentional strangulation
The charges relate to a criminal investigation which commenced in April 2025 following reports to police.
Stewart worked for Cumbria Constabulary as a Special Constable, Police Community Support Officer and Police Constable between 2015 and 2024. He left policing in 2024.
He was then subject to gross misconduct proceedings and has been barred from working in policing. Following these proceedings, reports of rape and sexual offences were made against Stewart which were reported to have taken place whilst he was off duty. A criminal investigation was immediately launched which has resulted in these charges.
The offences relate to two separate victims who are receiving ongoing specialist support.
Assistant Chief Constable Dave Stalker, Cumbria Constabulary, said: “Policing will not tolerate any type of sexual offending.
“Reporting rape and sexual offences can be daunting, but victims and survivors do not have to face it alone.
“We encourage anyone who has been affected to come forward and speak with us. You will be listened to, treated with respect and supported throughout.
"Our officers work closely with specialist partners to ensure victims receive the care, advice and support they need from the moment they come forward.”
Anyone who has experienced a rape or sexual offence is encouraged to report it to police by calling 101, reporting online via our website www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it or by calling 999 in an emergency.
Victims can also seek support and advice from specialist organisations if they are not yet ready to speak directly to police. You can contact The Bridgeway's 24/7 support helpline on 0330 223 0099.
For a full list of support services available, please visit: Support after rape and sexual assault | Cumbria Police.