An Essex Police officer has been sacked for gross misconduct after a disciplinary hearing revealed a series of offensive and discriminatory behaviours.
The unnamed officer was found to have breached multiple professional standards during conversations with colleagues and within a WhatsApp group.
The misconduct hearing, held at Chelmsford’s Civic Centre, heard that in October 2019 the officer made discriminatory remarks to colleagues. In January 2020, he made offensive comments during a discussion about American politics. Additionally, in November 2019, he sent a distasteful image to a WhatsApp group.
The officer was suspended after colleagues reported the incidents. On Friday, the disciplinary panel ruled that he had breached standards relating to authority, respect, courtesy, equality, diversity, and discreditable conduct.
The verdict was immediate dismissal without notice. Furthermore, the officer will be added to the College of Policing’s Barred List, preventing any future return to policing.
Assistant Chief Constable Andy Prophet condemned the ex-officer’s conduct, stating: “The views and actions expressed by this individual officer go against the values of Essex Police, and the police service as a whole. Embracing diversity and equality, and treating everyone fairly and with respect, whatever their background, is at the very heart of what we stand for. Essex Police is an inclusive organisation and these are values we actively uphold, not just within our force but within our communities. We will not tolerate prejudice or hate in any form. This is vital to help us deliver a fair and inclusive service to our communities, and to maintain their trust and confidence in us to keep them safe.”
The force emphasised its zero tolerance for discriminatory behaviour, sending a strong message across Essex that hate will never be tolerated within the police force.
Originally published by UKNIP.
