Police academy teacher held for sexual abuse

A teacher of the Police University College has been charged following allegations of sexual abuse and inappropriate behaviour made by the students, reported the national broadcaster Yle.

The accused teacher, a police officer of Sergeant’s rank, has been in custody throughout the pre-trial investigation as allegations of sexual abuse, sexual harassment and breach of official duty brought against the officer.

The teacher, however, denied the charges.

The accused officer has been working at the college for years, said Police University College Rector Kimmo Himberg to Yle.

“It is shocking that the apparent activity has been able to continue for a long time without anyone disclosing it to the staff,” said the Yle report quoting Himbergas as saying.

The Police University College began its own investigation after students reported inappropriate behaviour, and the college filed a criminal complaint last spring, the report added.