A Victoria Police officer, Taylor Johnson, is facing serious allegations of sexual assault after an incident during a trip to Sydney. The claims involve the alleged rape of a 38-year-old woman in a hotel while Johnson was off duty. The investigation was initiated by New South Wales (NSW) Police in March, following a referral from their counterparts in Victoria who specialise in sexual offences and family violence.
Johnson, 32, was arrested during a recent search of his home in north-east Melbourne. Following his arrest, he was granted police bail and appeared in Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court, where he sought modified bail conditions to reside in Victoria. During the proceedings, the court learned that his mother was willing to assist in ensuring he remains away from international airports.
The court, presided over by Magistrate Greg Grogin, imposed several bail conditions, including a prohibition on leaving Victoria except for court appearances in NSW. Johnson was also instructed to refrain from contacting the alleged victim, maintain a distance of 200 metres from her residence and workplace, and avoid any online disclosure regarding her.
Additionally, he must report daily to his local police station as part of the bail stipulations. Outside the court, Johnson’s lawyer stated that he intends to contest the charges. As the case progresses, Johnson is excused from attending court when the matter is set to return in late May. In the interim, he has been suspended from his duties at Victoria Police, although he continues to receive pay.