A POLICE officer who once ran Trafford's Volunteer Police Cadets was charged with more than 20 offences earlier today.

PC Adnan Ali, who is based in Trafford, was charged with 15 counts of misconduct in public office, five counts of sexual assault and the distribution of an indecent image of a child.

In October 2018, Ali was arrested on suspicion of police corruption, after a report of abuse of position for a sexual purpose.

The matter was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which oversaw the investigation by GMP's Major Incident Team and Professional Standards Branch.

In November 2018, Ali was arrested on suspicion of police corruption and sexual assault.

Then, in March 2019, he was arrested for a third time on suspicion of sexual assault, misconduct in public office and distributing an indecent image.

The investigation was completed in August 2019 and all of the evidence was passed on to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which has decided to authorise charges against Ali.

In a statement, GMP's Assistant Chief Constable Nicky Porter said: "I understand charges of this nature towards a Greater Manchester Police officer will cause concern amongst the public, particularly with those who are involved in the Trafford Volunteer Police Cadets.

"I want to offer assurances that we have worked closely with the IOPC on the investigation and a review of the cadet scheme was launched immediately following the initial report.

"We have and will continue to provide specialist support to all those affected by this case.

"I would urge anyone with information to contact the investigation team directly via email on op.ector@gmp.police.uk or by calling 0161 856 7386.

"Greater Manchester Victims' Services can provide emotional and practical support to anyone affected by crime.

"You can contact your local service by dialling 0161 200 1950, or request a call back via gmvictims.org.uk, to talk through support available from trained Independent Victim Advocates.

"Due to the case being subject to legal proceedings it would be inappropriate to comment any further at this time."

Ali is due to appear at Liverpool Magistrates' Court on August 5.