An investigation into a series of alleged non-recent sexual offences, which led to the arrest of MP Dan Norris, is continuing under Operation Bluestone, police have confirmed.
The former West of England Mayor, Dan Norris | Photo © WECA
The inquiry, run by the force’s dedicated rape and serious sexual assault investigation team, began in December 2024.
66-year-old Norris was first arrested in April 2025 on suspicion of a number of offences, including sexual offences against a girl (under the Sexual Offences Act 1956), rape (under the Sexual Offences Act 2003), child abduction and misconduct in a public office.
Following further enquiries, he has since been arrested again on suspicion of rape against a second woman and sexual assault against a third woman, as well as voyeurism and upskirting offences against a number of women.
All of the alleged offences are reported to have taken place between the 2000s and 2020s.
Officers say they are no longer actively investigating any sexual offences against children, but the original rape and misconduct in a public office investigation remains ongoing.
Police have said investigations into sexual offences are sensitive and complex, adding that it can take a significant amount of time to complete all necessary enquiries.
Norris remains on conditional bail while the case is investigated.
Victims involved in the case are being kept informed of developments, and are being offered access to any support services they may need.
The force has also asked people not to speculate publicly about the circumstances of the case, so that officers can continue their enquiries without interference.
Norris, a former government minister and trained child protection officer, was elected as the regional mayor for the West of England in May 2021.
He unseated Jacob Rees-Mogg at the election in July 2024, becoming the MP for North East Somerset and Hanham.
In a statement, Helen Godwin, the current Mayor of the West of England, said: “My thoughts are with everyone affected by today’s deeply upsetting further news.
“After a weekend of awful revelations in the Epstein papers, these latest allegations are a reminder that everyone – and in particular those in positions of power – must be robustly held to account where any offences are proven.
“Together, we all need to redouble our efforts to tackle violence against women and girls across our society.
“The combined authority and I are unable to comment on a specific, ongoing police investigation.”
