Herts police has condemned the actions of an officer from Stevenage who manipulated crime victims into sex while on duty.

Simon Salway was found guilty at Luton Crown Court on Tuesday of six counts of misconduct in public office with regards to five women who had contacted police for help between 2006 and 2014.

The 39-year-old – who was acquitted of one of the charges – has been given conditional bail and will return for sentencing at Luton Crown Court on Tuesday, January 5.

Salway had been trained to deal with domestic violence victims, but exploited their vulnerability, insecurity, and need for male attention.

A police spokeswoman, in reaction to the verdict, said: “The conviction of Simon Salway marks the end of a challenging investigation led by Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Professional Standards Unit.

“His conduct was appalling and, at no time did Salway consider the impact of his actions on his vulnerable victims. His behaviour was totally unacceptable and betrays the trust placed in him as a serving officer.”