A serving Durham Police officer and veteran has appeared in court accused of child sex offences.
Police constable Haydyn Brunsdon appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court this morning.
The officer has been charged with two counts of attempted sexual communication with a child in June and September this year and one count of misconduct in public office.
Brunsdon, previously of an address in Darlington, was allegedly communicating with two female decoys aged 13 and 15.
Haydyn Brunsdon has been suspended from his duties as a constable by Durham Police. (Image: NORTH NEWS)
Brunsdon is also said to have served in the Royal Navy for ten years.
District Judge Steven Hood told Brunsdon that the misconduct in public office charge must be heard at the Crown Court.
He said: “The two charges of attempted sexual communication are directly linked to the misconduct in a public office and will also be transferred to Crown Court.”
Brunsdon will appear at Durham Crown Court on October 29 for a further hearing.
Read more
Thugs targeted 'innocent' man kicking down door before attacking him
County Durham man denies threats to kill as he faces three further charges
Thief pushed woman out of the way to steal her 55inch tv
Judge Hood said an application for an interim sexual risk order will be heard at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court next week.
Brunsdon has been suspended while the criminal case continues.
The Northern Echo understands that he was arrested while off duty and taken into custody in another force area.
He was released on conditional bail until his next court appearance.