Army Officer Arrested Over Sex Assault

A senior Army officer who taught Prince Harry to fly helicopters has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.

Major Chris Hearn, 48, was detained by detectives from Hampshire Constabulary yesterday and released last night on police bail following questioning.

The officer is from 7 Regiment Army Air Corps (AAC) and would have guided Harry through part of his flying training.

The 26-year-old prince, a Household Cavalry officer, is attached to the AAC and in July began an eight-month course to learn how to master Apache helicopters at the AAC's flying school at Middle Wallop, Hampshire.

Hampshire Police would not confirm the identity of the man but a spokeswoman said:

"Hampshire Constabulary can confirm that a 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault following a complaint from a woman from the Wallop area.

"He has been released on bail pending further inquiries.''

The 48-year-old is due to answer bail in January next year.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said:

"The MoD can confirm that we are aware that a serving officer from 7 Regiment AAC has been arrested by Hampshire Police following an allegation of a sexual nature.

"The matter is currently the subject of an investigation by Hampshire Police and it would therefore be inappropriate to comment further whilst this is ongoing.''