A law enforcement sergeant faced allegations of improper physical contact with a colleague during a shift and has now been demoted in rank.

Matthew Crane was accused of inappropriate touching while serving as a sergeant at the Eastbourne detention facility between September 16 and 19, 2023.

The case was forwarded to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, who instructed the Professional Standards Department to carry out an internal investigation.

He faced two counts of sexual assault charges. After his criminal trial wrapped up on September 9, 2025, he received an acquittal on one count, while the jury could not reach a verdict on the second count.

In February, Crane underwent gross misconduct proceedings after the criminal case concluded, centered on violations of professional standards including discreditable behavior and abuse of authority, respect, and courtesy.

He acknowledged that his conduct was improper but contended it did not constitute gross misconduct.

Following a hearing that spanned two days, the gross misconduct allegations were substantiated, resulting in Crane’s rank being lowered from police sergeant to police constable.