A Sussex Police officer denied child sex offences and perverting the course of justice at a crown court hearing this afternoon (Tuesday 19 May).
Iain Macnab, 51, who studied for a business degree at Brighton University, was arraigned – or formally asked to answer the charges – at Guildford Crown Court.
Judge Patricia Lees, the honorary recorder of Guildford, told the detective inspector that he would go on trial in August next year.
Macnab, who lives in Southwater and served in West Sussex, faces trial by jury accused of sexual assault and sexual activity with a child as well as perverting the course of justice.
When he was charged in March, the force said: “A Sussex Police officer has been charged with sex offences against two children.
“Iain Macnab, 51, a Detective Inspector based in West Sussex, has been charged with sexual assault, sexual activity with a child and perverting the course of justice.
“The sexual allegations relate to his off-duty role as a football coach in West Sussex between October 2024 and February 2025.
“He was on duty at the time of the allegation of perverting the course of justice.
“Both victims and their families are being supported by specialist officers.
“Macnab was suspended from duty in March 2025 when the reports were first received.
“He has been remanded in custody, pending an appearance at Guildford Magistrates’ Court today (Tuesday 24 March).
“The matter has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct as is standard procedure.”
