Carlisle Man Charged With Rape And Sexual Assault
A Carlisle man has been charged with multiple serious sexual offences following an investigation by Cumbria Police involving two alleged victims.
Matthew Stewart, 31, of Carlisle, has been charged with one count of rape, one count of sexual assault, and two counts of intentional strangulation. The charges follow an investigation into allegations reported to Cumbria Police in April 2025.
Police confirmed that Stewart is scheduled to appear before North Cumbria Magistrates' Court on 24 August 2026. The criminal proceedings relate to allegations involving two separate complainants.
Cumbria Police said the alleged offences are reported to have occurred while Stewart was off duty. Following the complaints, detectives launched a full criminal investigation which resulted in the charges now being brought before the courts.
Stewart previously served with Cumbria Police between 2015 and 2024, during which he worked as a Special Constable, Police Community Support Officer, and later as a police constable. After leaving the force in 2024, he became the subject of gross misconduct proceedings and was subsequently barred from policing.
Assistant Chief Constable Dave Stalker said the force takes allegations of rape and sexual offences extremely seriously and remains committed to supporting victims throughout the investigative process. He acknowledged that reporting such offences can be difficult and encouraged anyone affected to come forward.
Police confirmed that specialist safeguarding measures have been put in place for both alleged victims and that officers continue to work alongside partner agencies to provide ongoing support. The force also stressed that anyone reporting sexual offences will be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
Cumbria Police reminded the public that criminal proceedings are now active and that the defendant is entitled to a fair trial. As with all criminal cases, the charges remain allegations until proven in court.
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