A SENIOR police officer who lives near Bodmin is to face trial in November on charges of committing a sexual assault of a woman.

Robert James Saunders, who gave a home address of Cardinham has pleaded not guilty to a charge of sexual assault by touching.

It is alleged that the incident took place at a location in Exeter on June 10, 2022.

In the brief hearing, where his plea was submitted, it was stated that Mr Saunders was a police officer, confirming a previous statement by Devon and Cornwall Police which stated that he was a temporary superintendent who was suspended from his job while facing these allegations.

He is next set to appear in court on November 2, with District Judge Angela Brereton stating that although he is scheduled to appear at Taunton Crown Court, it was presently sitting in Weston Super Mare with the hearing potentially changed to another court on a different day.

Mr Saunders has been granted unconditional bail.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police had said ahead of his appearance at Plymouth Magistrates Court: “A serving Devon and Cornwall Police officer is due to appear at Plymouth Magistrates Court on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

“Temporary Superintendent Jim Saunders, aged 48, from East Cornwall, is charged with one count of sexual assault by touching.

“Temporary Superintendent Saunders is currently suspended.”