UPDATE: PC Nicholas Davey was acquitted at trial when the prosecution offered no evidence.

A POLICEMAN accused of being in a sexual relationship with a witness in one of his cases has had his case sent to the crown court.

PC Nicholas Davey appeared before magistrates today facing a charge of misconduct in public office.

It is alleged that Davey, 43, committed the offence in Chippenham between January 1 and April 7, 2009.

He is said to have been in 'a sexual relationship with a material witness prior to a court case while acting as officer in the case.'

Davey, of Dickens Avenue, Corsham, spoke only to give his name, address and date of birth, during a two-minute hearing at Swindon Magistrates' Court.

Because the case can only be heard by a judge it was sent to Swindon Crown Court for a first hearing on Friday, April 10. Davey was released on unconditional bail.