Dorset Police officer given final written warning for misconduct

They failed to stop an inappropriate sexualised conversation about a colleague

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 23rd Jun 2024

A serving Dorset Police officer has been found guilty of misconduct, for failing to stop an inappropriate sexualised conversation about a colleague.

A panel has given the officer a final written warning that will remain in place for three years.

What happened?

The conversation happened on a train in April 2022, when the officer and colleagues travelled from London to Dorset following a work-related visit to the capital.

The panel found there was insufficient evidence that the officer was actively engaged with the conversation, but was satisfied he would have been aware it.

The officer breached the Standards of Professional Behaviour by failing to stop it.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne said:

“I was disappointed to learn about the derogatory conversation that took place between serving members of Dorset Police staff about one of their colleagues.

“This officer failed in his duty to challenge and stop those engaged in the conversation and the outcome of the panel reflects the seriousness of this.

“Any behaviour which is contrary to the Equality Act, the Code of Ethics and the Professional Standards of Behaviour will not be tolerated and will result in serious consequences. Such unacceptable behaviour impacts negatively on public confidence and damages the reputation of the Force.

“We know the vast majority of employees within the organisation are professional and do not demonstrate behaviour that has been heard in this hearing. Unfortunately, the actions of colleagues that day did not meet these high standards.

“We are committed to investigating any unethical or unacceptable behaviour relating to a member of our organisation and I would encourage members of the public to report them to the Force so they can be thoroughly investigated.”

Anyone can report any concerns to Dorset Police by calling 101 or emailing complaints-misconduct@dorset.pnn.police.uk.

Members of the public can also report matters in confidence to the Police Anti-Corruption and Abuse Reporting Service by calling  0800 085 0000.

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