Senior cop accused of raping a woman in a hotel during weekend escape is supported by his mum as he fronts court for the first time

By ADELAIDE LANG FOR AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATED PRESS

Published: 09:43 BST, 3 April 2025 | Updated: 12:21 BST, 3 April 2025

A police officer has remained tight-lipped as he prepares to fight allegations he sexually assaulted a woman in a hotel room during an interstate holiday.

Victorian senior constable Taylor Johnson was off duty and spending the weekend in Sydney on March 23 when he allegedly raped a 38-year-old woman in a hotel.

NSW Police launched an investigation into the alleged incident after a referral from their southern counterparts’ sexual offences and family violence unit. 

The 32-year-old officer was arrested on Wednesday when his Victoria Police colleagues carried out a search warrant at his home in north-east Melbourne. 

Granted police bail, Johnson faced a Sydney court for the first time on Thursday to push for modified conditions that would allow him to live in Victoria.

He was supported by his mother, who the court was told was willing to drive her son to Melbourne to ensure he would not come close to an international airport.

In Downing Centre Local Court, Magistrate Greg Grogin applied a raft of bail conditions, including a ban on leaving Victoria except to attend court in NSW.

Johnson was also banned from contacting the alleged victim, approaching within 200 metres of where she works or lives or publishing any material about her online. 

Victorian senior constable Taylor Johnson was flanked by his mother as he departed Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney on Thursday

Johnson was tight-lipped as he was confronted by reporters over the sexual assault allegations

Other conditions include daily reporting to his local police station. 

Johnson did not answer questions from reporters as he walked out of the courthouse flanked by his mother and his lawyer Charles Abbott.

Mr Abbott said his client would defend the charge.

Victoria Police has suspended the senior constable with pay.

Johnson is excused from appearing when his matter returns to court in late May.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028

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Senior cop accused of raping a woman in a hotel during weekend escape is supported by his mum as he fronts court for the first time

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