A BEAT officer has been arrested in a prostitution inquiry.
Northumbria Police have suspended PC Graham Brown, 31, over claims he procured women for the sex trade.
PC Brown, based at Clifford Street police station in Byker, Newcastle, was arrested after a lengthy investigation.
Detectives have also arrested 32-year-old Thomas Hay in connection with the inquiry.
The pair were remanded in custody following an appearance at Newcastle Crown Court yesterday.
A police spokeswoman said: "PC Graham Brown has been suspended from duty pending the outcome of the criminal case."
PC Brown, who lives in Newcastle, and Mr Hay, of Byker, were charged with conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm.
Mr Hay was also charged with rape on September 15, and conspiracy to cause prostitution.
PC Brown is also charged with procuring women to leave their homes with the intent to frequent a brothel.
The offences cover a period between May 17, 1999 and October 22 this year.
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