Clive Grunshaw, Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, has reaffirmed his commitment to holding officers accountable for misconduct after a Lancashire officer who abused his position for a sexual purpose had a significant portion of his pension forfeited.
Darren Coathup, who was sentenced to two years in prison in February 2023, had 65% of his pension revoked for five years, following a decision made by Commissioner Grunshaw in consultation with legal experts and Lancashire’s Anti-Corruption Unit. The decision comes under the rules allowing pension forfeiture for officers convicted of criminal offences connected to their service that result in a serious loss of public confidence.
Clive Grunshaw emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust in policing, stating, “As Commissioner, I will continue to support the Constabulary in upholding policing standards and identifying those who abuse their position. When officers break the trust of their colleagues and the people of Lancashire, we will take every available step to ensure they face the fullest consequences, including forfeiting their pensions.
He added, “This decision sends a clear message that misconduct, particularly when it exploits vulnerable individuals, will not be tolerated in Lancashire. We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to hold officers accountable.”
Deputy Chief Constable Sam Mackenzie of Lancashire Constabulary echoed these sentiments, saying, “Offending of such an appalling nature must have wide-reaching consequences. It is right that the decision to subject Coathup to this pension forfeiture was made, and I am confident that the public would expect no less in cases of criminal conduct by police officers.”
While the pension forfeiture affects the Constabulary’s contributions, the officer’s own contributions to the pension cannot be forfeited under current regulations. The decision reflects the high standards of integrity expected of those who serve in law enforcement, with any breach of these standards being met with strict repercussions.
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