Cumbria Police inspector sacked for sexual misconduct
Simon Gee made sexual comments towards colleagues and intentionally touched a female colleague's bare leg
A Cumbria Police inspector has been sacked for sexual misconduct.
Simon Gee, who was employed as an inspector by the force since July 2020, made sexual comments towards colleagues whilst off-duty and intentionally touched a female colleague's bare leg.
An investigation was launched after fellow officers saw his inappropriate behaviour on a night out and raised their concerns to the Professional Standards Department.
A misconduct hearing was held between 11 and 14 April, which was chaired by an Independent Legally Qualified Chair.
Gee faced four allegations. Two were found to amount to gross misconduct and two were found to amount to misconduct.
His actions were found to be so serious that he was dismissed.
Cumbria Police Deputy Chief Constable Rob Carden said:
"Cumbria Police holds its officers to the highest standards of integrity, whether on or off duty. It is clear that this officer fell far below these standards.
"Whilst this incident took place when the officer was off duty, his comments and actions towards policing colleagues were inappropriate and inexcusable.
"No police officer should act in this way.
"The finding of Gross Misconduct will result not only in the officer’s dismissal from the force, but also addition to the barred list, meaning the individual will not be able to become a police officer elsewhere.
"I can assure the public that this officer’s actions are wholly unrepresentative of our Police Officers and staff, who work every day to keep people safe and in a manner which we can all be proud.
"I hope that the outcome of the Misconduct Proceedings will demonstrate to the public that all allegations against police officers and staff are treated with the utmost seriousness, investigated thoroughly and, where wrong-doing is found to be evidenced, significant action taken to hold them accountable.
"I would like to thank the panel, and in particular the Independent Legally Qualified Chair, for their thoroughness and diligence throughout this hearing."
Gee will now be placed on the College of Policing's barred list.