A gross misconduct hearing held at Wiltshire Police Headquarters on 25 February 2025 has concluded that former police constable Robert Poile would have been dismissed without notice had he still been serving, following serious breaches of professional standards.

The hearing, chaired by Assistant Chief Constable Deb Smith, found that former PC Poile violated the Standards of Professional Behaviour concerning Honesty and Integrity by providing inaccurate information during the police vetting process.

Key Findings of the Misconduct Hearing:

• Two allegations against Poile, relating to misleading information supplied during the vetting process, were upheld.
• The hearing concluded that his actions were serious enough to warrant dismissal without notice had he still been employed by Wiltshire Police.
• Poile will be placed on the national barred list, preventing him from working in any police force in the UK in the future.

Police Leadership Condemns the Breach

Deputy Chief Constable Mark Cooper emphasized the importance of public trust and accountability within the police force, stating:

“Our communities rightly expect that only those suitable to work in policing are able to, and that they have been vetted to the highest standards.”

“Our communities also expect and deserve the highest standards of professional behaviour from all our officers and staff. Former PC Poile’s actions in withholding information that would have had a material impact on the outcome of his vetting application fell well short of the standards we expect, and he has been held to account for his actions.”

Right to Appeal

In line with the Police Conduct Regulations 2020, former PC Poile has 10 working days to appeal the outcome of the hearing.

Maintaining Integrity in Policing

Wiltshire Police reiterated their commitment to maintaining public trust and high professional standards, particularly in recruitment and vetting processes. The force remains focused on ensuring that all serving officers meet the ethical and professional standards expected by the public.

The outcome of this hearing serves as a reminder that breaches of integrity, even by former officers, will be pursued and held accountable to safeguard public trust in policing.