A former Dorset Police Chief Inspector has publicly condemned the force’s dismissal of PC Lorne Castle, calling it a “scandalous injustice” that reflects a police force “no longer fit for purpose.” The explosive statement from retired T/Chief Inspector Chris Amey has ignited widespread backlash across social media and within law enforcement circles.

Amey, who personally recruited, mentored, and trained Castle, broke his silence this week, publishing a detailed statement that has since gone viral. He describes Castle as one of the “most selfless and exemplary officers” he encountered in his 30-year policing career — a frontline hero now ousted without recognition for his service.

The Dismissal of PC Lorne Castle

PC Castle, who joined the force after initially serving as a PCSO, was dismissed without notice following a three-day Gross Misconduct Hearing earlier this year. The incident in question occurred in January 2024, when Castle responded to a violent assault in Bournemouth town centre — after completing a 10-hour shift.

Rather than clock off, Castle responded to a call involving a masked suspect accused of assaulting a 14-year-old boy and an elderly man. Acting on live CCTV, Castle and a colleague located the suspect in a volatile group setting. The subsequent complaint, details of which remain undisclosed, led to disciplinary proceedings that ultimately ended Castle’s career.

Decorated Service Ignored

Castle’s service record is extensive:

• 2021 Commander’s Commendation for community intervention

• Michael Stannard Community Officer of the Year

• Disruption of a county lines drug operation seizing £15,000 worth of drugs and cash

• Two life-saving rescues in 2017 and 2024, involving high-risk river entries to save vulnerable individuals — one with dementia

Despite receiving the Humane Society’s highest award, Castle was allegedly only included in the ceremony after external pressure was placed on Dorset Police.

“He’s the kind of officer you’d want by your side in any situation. Loyal. Brave. Decent,” Amey wrote. “The treatment he has received is not just unfair — it’s disgraceful.”

Chris Amey: “Ashamed to Have Served”

Amey, who retired from Dorset Police in 2022 after service in both the Metropolitan Police and Dorset, said the force’s treatment of Castle was the tipping point in a culture he describes as “toxic, bureaucratic, and disconnected from real policing.”

His statement reads:

“I left ashamed. And now, I speak out because I could not watch a dedicated, decorated officer be torn down by a system that no longer values courage or truth.”

Public Outcry and Media Silence

The story has gained traction across independent media platforms and social networks, with hashtags like #JusticeForLorne and #ReformDorsetPolice trending overnight.

Supporters say the case highlights a growing disconnect between frontline realities and internal disciplinary culture, where even highly commended officers are left vulnerable to career-ending decisions.

Calls are mounting for an independent review, with former officers, police federation reps, and community leaders urging the Home Office to intervene.

Why It Matters

The Lorne Castle case touches on key issues shaking public trust in policing:

• Frontline burnout and lack of support

• Disproportionate disciplinary action against officers acting in good faith

• Systemic failure to honour service and sacrifice

Amey’s statement closes with a stark warning:

“If this can happen to Lorne, it can happen to any officer. The damage this is doing to morale and integrity is incalculable.”

What’s Next?

As pressure builds, Dorset Police has yet to publicly respond to Amey’s accusations or the widespread criticism following Castle’s dismissal.

Independent watchdogs and legal observers are now scrutinizing the misconduct process, with insiders suggesting a potential challenge to the decision could follow.