PC Thomas Rendell, 23, had been due to stand trial in September 2026 accused of multiple sexual offences involving a girl aged between 13 and 15. The charges related to alleged incidents between February and June 2022, before Rendell joined Sussex Police.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has now confirmed that the case has been dropped, stating:
“Following a careful review of the evidence, the CPS concluded that there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction.”
Although he was not a serving officer at the time of the alleged offences, Rendell was based within the East Sussex division when arrested. He has remained suspended from duty throughout the proceedings.
Sussex Police confirmed that the matter was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which directed a local investigation by the force’s Professional Standards Department.
A spokesperson for Sussex Police said:
“Now that criminal proceedings have concluded, misconduct proceedings will commence.”
PC Rendell may now face a gross misconduct hearing which could lead to his dismissal and inclusion on the College of Policing’s barred list.
