A Metropolitan Police officer charged with attempted rape and causing a male to engage in penetrative sexual activity has been given bail ahead of his next court appearance in January.

Sergeant Elliot Butler of the Central East Command Unit which covers Hackney and Tower Hamlets was bailed to appear at Southwark Crown Court on January 5. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday.

The offences are alleged to have taken place in 2013 when Butler was a Special Constable.

The Met say he is currently suspended from duty.

District Judge Louisa Cieciora told the hearing that reporting restrictions are in place until the following court date.