Reports of sexual misconduct in Humberside police increase by 420% in last five years

We can exclusively reveal reports of sexual misconduct within Humberside police have risen by 420% in the last five years.

We submitted a Freedom of Information request after a review into the Met Police in London found it was ‘institutionally sexist, racist and homophobic.’

Figures from Humberside police show there were 26 investigations into sexual misconduct in the last year - that's compared to just five in 2018.

Richard Clarke's a former officer – he says it’s something he witnessed and hopes it’s a wake-up call to all forces across the Country, he said:

“420% is not a shock, it is a nightmare.

"It’s clear that more officers are coming forward to identify it but what are the force going to do about it? It is an awful lot of officers.

“Females are seeing there is a lot of women’s support groups that are available. Women have the chance to be able to have their say and there are supporting bodies there for them, the problem is that doesn’t help them when they’re in a police force because it is very closed rank.

“The police need to sort these reports out themselves, it’s not down to the government, or members of the public. They shouldn’t be in the position of having to complain about inappropriate conduct of a police officer, it should be dealt with by the police. They are the investigating body, trained detectives.”

Within the five years (2018-2022) out of the 56 officers who have undergone or are undergoing investigation for sexual misconduct, only one officer has taken up reflective practice, four have been dismissed and 24 have not been proven.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Anderson said:

“At Humberside Police we expect the highest standards from all of our 4,000-strong workforce.

"Over the last five years, we have worked hard to identify and put an end to, behaviours that fall below our expected standards.

“Where allegations are made against any officer or staff member, we will take all necessary steps to ensure a full investigation. One allegation of sexual misconduct by an officer or member of staff against anyone is one too many and when it is disclosed, we ensure a full and proper investigation is carried out to obtain the facts of the allegations.

“I want to praise those that have come forward to disclose that they have been a victim of sexual misconduct.

"While the figures are a stark reminder that policing is not immune from sexual predators, I am comforted that more people feel able to call out such behaviours.

“We will not condone or accept any form of abuse of position within Humberside Police and we will always take action and hold those responsible to account.”

Mr Anderson added;

“We are committed in rooting out those who should never have embarked on a police career and who cause the communities we serve to doubt our integrity and professionalism.

“Our communities deserve the highest quality service and should feel they can have confidence in policing, and we will do all we can to deliver this.”

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