Sgt. Steve Desjourdy faces one count of sexual assault in the 2008 cellblock strip search of an Ottawa woman. (CBC)

The trial of an Ottawa police officer charged with sexual assault after the 2008 cellblock strip search of an Ottawa woman continued Tuesday as arguments resumed on whether the officer's testimony in a previous trial can be used should he take the stand.

Sgt. Steve Desjourdy pleaded not guilty to one count of sexual assault in the strip search of the woman, who cannot be identified because of a publication ban.

Crown lawyers completed their case against Desjourdy last week.

Before the defence presents any witnesses, however, the trial Tuesday was once again concerned with legal arguments that only apply if Desjourdy himself takes the stand.

It is Desjourdy's right not to testify. But if he does, the Crown is seeking the right to ask him about the 2010 trial of the Ottawa woman he is accused of sexually assaulting.

It was after her 2010 trial that an Ottawa judge released a police surveillance video of her arrest to the public. The video showed several officers holding the woman down while Desjourdy appeared to cut off her bra and shirt.

Two more days have been set aside for the trial this week.

Both sides have agreed with the judge that if needed, they will request more time. But a full slate of court cases in October might force the trial to be put over until November.