DEVIZES police officer Geoff Goodway has been sentenced after assaulting a member of the public whilst off-duty.

PC Goodway, 43, who had previously admitted two counts of common assault, was sentenced on Tuesday at Bristol Crown Court.

The assaults took place when PC Goodway, who has been an officer since 2009, was off duty. He was last stationed at Devizes Borough in New Park Street and has been suspended since he was arrested.

He received a 12 month Community Order which includes 150 hours unpaid work, a five year restraining order and ordered to pay £500 in costs.

Now the criminal element of this case has concluded, misconduct proceedings will recommence at the earliest opportunity with a special case hearing before the Chief Constable Kier Pritchard.

Wiltshire Police Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills said: “We expect the highest levels of conduct from all our officers, staff and volunteers both on and off duty.

“Finally, I would like to pay tribute to the victim in this case for showing the utmost bravery in coming forward and reporting this matter.”

In 2014 PC Goodway took part in a charity run to raise money for the charity Splash which is supported by Wiltshire Police and helps vulnerable young people.

At the time PC Goodway, who worked in the Neighbourhood Tasking Team, said: “I am humbled to be representing Splash – it only took a short chat with the team to make me realise I wanted to get involved and help them raise much needed funds for the great work they do.”