The Boston Globe reports that a Lowell police officer has pleaded not guilty to charges that he raped two prostitutes and solicited prostitution from others while he was on duty.
Prosecutors allege that 31-year-old Aravanh Lakmany of Dracut would approach the women, ask them to get into his cruiser or personal vehicle and drive them to an isolated area where they would engage in sexual conduct.
Prosecutors say in one instance Lakmany offered not to arrest a woman wanted on outstanding warrants in exchange for sexual favors.
Lakmany was arraigned Tuesday on charges of extortion, three counts of rape and three counts of solicitation of prostitutes.
A Middlesex Superior Court Clerk Magistrate released him on personal recognizance, the Globe reported.
