Hampshire Police officers sacked over messages
They included homophobic, sexist, racist and misogynistic comments
Last updated 6 hours ago
Two Hampshire Police constables have been sacked from the force after sending more than 800 offensive to each other on WhatsApp.
The racist, sexist, homophobic and misogynistic comments were exchanged by PC Michael Spake and PC Adam Holloway over a seven-week period in July and August last year.
Both were found guilty of misconduct following an accelerated misconduct hearing at the force's Operational Headquarters in Winchester yesterday (June 25th).
It heard the 856 messages included ones which made reference to plagiarism of their student dissertations and being derogatory about other members of staff, including line managers and colleagues.
The two officers were dismissed without notice and placed on the College of Policing barred list for five years.
Hampshire Police's Chief Constable Scott Chilton, who was the chair of the hearing, described the messages as being 'among the most abhorrent I have ever seen', and said he was 'incensed' to hear them.
He added:
"The way these officers discussed treating members of the public and colleagues defies belief and they now deservedly hold the shame of being dismissed from policing due to their own disgusting language and beliefs.
"As soon as these messages were identified, we have taken the necessary steps to remove both officers from the Constabulary at the earliest opportunity.
"However, I want to be clear, today's decision does not limit further courses of action for us. I expect a full and thorough investigation into any further matters, including an criminal conduct.
"Social media and messaging apps cannot be a place for officers with opinions like the ones we have heard today to hide.
"These officers do not reflect members of this force, who routinely, day in and day out, do all they can to show kindness, compassion and professionalism in keeping our communities safe.
"I know that the officers and staff of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary will not just feel let down by PC Spake and PC Holloway, many will feel angry and upset on hearing the detail of the beliefs and views that these officers held, and will all want to join me in rooting out anyone who acts in this manner."