PC Jonathan Miles, an Essex Police officer based in Clacton, has been dismissed after an off-duty road rage incident that took place in Colchester on 15 April 2019. The officer was accused of aggressively tailing another vehicle around a roundabout and verbally abusing the driver and their passenger.
The misconduct hearing was held at Chelmsford Civic Centre from 19 to 23 July. A panel chaired by Independent Chair Mrs Alex Robson found the allegations against PC Miles to be proven. The behaviour was found to breach Essex Police’s Standards of Professional Behaviour, specifically the sections on ‘Authority, Respect, and Courtesy’ and ‘Discreditable Conduct’.
Assistant Chief Constable Andy Prophet commented on the case, stating: “We expect all officers and staff to maintain the highest possible standards of conduct regardless of whether they are off duty. We police with the consent of the public so it’s essential we all behave in a respectful and courteous way, whether as part of our work keeping the public safe or in our day-to-day lives.”
He added, “Every day our officers find themselves in challenging situations and it’s vital they keep their cool and do not lose their temper to ensure they are making rational decisions. I would expect no different when they’re off duty. PC Jonathan Miles’ behaviour fell well below the standards we demand.”
PC Miles was dismissed without notice, reinforcing Essex Police’s zero tolerance policy towards poor conduct, even when officers are off the clock.
Originally published by UKNIP.
