Rick Pendlebury, a former Greater Manchester Police officer, has been released under criminal investigation while further enquiries are conducted.
Strict bail conditions have been imposed on Pendlebury to prevent any contact with the victim or witnesses.
Bury CID is investigating the reported offence, and it is understood that Pendlebury’s electronic devices have been seized for analysis.
He is scheduled to return for a further interview and a CPS charging decision next week.
Pendlebury was arrested at approximately 8 p.m. on Wednesday, 20 November 2024, by Greater Manchester Police after being reported for publishing the identity of a rape victim on social media. This act constitutes a criminal offence under the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1976.
It is believed that Pendlebury obtained the victim’s information during his employment at The Maggie Oliver Foundation (TMOF), where he served as Head of Safeguarding. TMOF is a charity founded by Maggie Oliver to support victims of rape and sexual abuse.
Both Maggie Oliver and Jennie Lucas, the CEO of TMOF, were aware of Pendlebury’s past misconduct, including his dismissal from Greater Manchester Police for serious data breaches.
Serious concerns about Pendlebury were also reportedly raised with Maggie Oliver and Jennie Lucas early in 2023. However, it is alleged that they failed to take appropriate action.
Further concerns were raised in March 2024, which ultimately led to Pendlebury’s departure from the Foundation. It remains unclear whether he was dismissed or chose to resign.
Read the public statement made by the rape victim
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