In a deeply troubling case, a police inspector identified as Insp Clive Summerill has been dismissed without notice following a misconduct hearing. The independent Legally Qualified Chair, leading the inquiry, determined that Insp Clive Summerill committed rape against a woman referred to as Person A in a hotel room outside of the Avon and Somerset area in 2021.

Despite a criminal investigation by an independent police force yielding no further action due to insufficient evidence, a separate misconduct investigation conducted by Avon and Somerset Police led to this week’s hearing at Police Headquarters.

The panel concluded that Insp Clive Summerill had engaged in gross misconduct by breaching standards of professional behavior, specifically authority, respect, and courtesy, as well as discreditable conduct. Shockingly, the hearing also revealed that the officer discussed the incident and criminal investigation with colleagues, disclosing the name of the victim.

Supt Mark Edgington, head of Professional Standards, expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “The panel’s findings mean this officer has committed a shocking and reprehensible act, and while there was insufficient evidence for criminal proceedings to be brought, he’s not fit to have the privilege of serving our communities and will be banned from holding another position in policing or law enforcement again.”

Edgington emphasised the commitment to rooting out individuals engaged in predatory behavior within the police force, acknowledging the complexity and sensitivity of such investigations. The dismissal underscores the determination to maintain the integrity of policing and hold those who breach trust accountable.

The statement further highlighted the police force’s dedication to addressing Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) seriously, pledging ongoing support for victims throughout the investigative and criminal justice processes.