A North Wales Police officer charged with sexual offences has appeared at Chester Crown Court.

Detective Constable Lee Harshey-Jones, who is currently suspended from duty, attended a brief hearing on Tuesday, 14 July.

The 45-year-old, of North Wales, faces charges of operating equipment beneath clothing without consent, contrary to Section 67A(1) and (4) of the Sexual Offences Act 2003, as well as allegations of perverting the course of justice and the corrupt or improper exercise of police powers and privileges by a constable.

The charges relate to an incident involving two juvenile females which was reported in the Colwyn Bay area on Thursday, 11 June.

DC Harshey-Jones was arrested later the same day and was subsequently charged. North Wales Police confirmed he was immediately suspended from duty following the charges being brought.

At the hearing at Chester Crown Court, he was released on conditional bail until 30 September. A provisional trial date has been set for 16 August 2027.

North Wales Police has said further updates on the proceedings will be provided when appropriate.

The force has previously stressed that allegations involving officers are subject to the same legal process as any other case, and that professional standards procedures remain separate from the criminal investigation.