A DORSET police officer will stand trial at Bournemouth Crown Court later this year for sexual assault.

Dean Andrew, 36, of St Clement’s Road, Poole, is accused of sexually touching a woman on September 21, 2012, in Ashley Road, Poole.

Andrew entered a not guilty plea to the charge at a previous hearing and yesterday (Feb 5) his case was committed to the crown court.

The officer had been told his case was suitable to be tried at the magistrates’ court but he instead elected to be tried by jury.

Andrew was released on unconditional bail and will next appear at Bournemouth Crown Court on March 11, 2013, for a full plea and case management hearing.