A former South Wales Police constable faces serious criminal charges following an alleged assault on a woman during his shift in February 2024. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) announced that Rikki Hall, 33, has been charged with two counts of rape, one count of non-fatal strangulation, possession of a firearm, and two counts of misconduct in public office. He is accused of committing the alleged offences while on duty in Swansea city centre.
Hall resigned from South Wales Police while the IOPC investigation was underway. He is scheduled to appear before Bristol Magistrates' Court on Thursday to face the charges.
The watchdog's investigation commenced in February 2024 following a mandatory conduct referral submitted by South Wales Police. The IOPC compiled a substantial body of evidence and submitted it to the Crown Prosecution Service in February 2025.
A substantial file of material was submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service in February 2025 and, following further lines of enquiry being undertaken, charges were authorised by the CPS, the IOPC stated.
Context of police accountability
This case reflects ongoing concerns about misconduct within policing. In a separate recent case, a police officer was jailed for 10 years for raping two women and abusing a third, with an earlier allegation from 2014 having been dropped, which allowed him to continue his career. That incident prompted an apology from Police Scotland over communication failures in handling the original complaint.
What are the specific charges?
Hall faces five separate charges spanning criminal offences and breaches of professional conduct. The two rape counts and the strangulation charge relate to the alleged incident in Swansea. The misconduct in public office charges relate to his conduct as a serving officer, while the firearm possession charge is a separate criminal matter.
What happens next?
Hall's first court appearance is scheduled for Thursday at Bristol Magistrates' Court. The court will determine whether the case proceeds to Crown Court and set conditions for his release or remand. The CPS will present its case, and the defendant will have the opportunity to enter pleas.
