Ex-Essex Police officer committed 'gross misconduct' by calling in sick then going to the races
Former PC Kira Wealls would have been sacked by the force - had she not already quit
A former Essex Police officer has been found guilty of gross misconduct after calling in sick before having a day out at Newmarket racecourse.
A panel found former PC Kira Wealls would have been sacked by the force had she not already resigned.
PC Wealls was due to work a shift on June 24 this year but called in ill.
The same day she went to Newmarket with friends, before becoming involved in a fight with members of the public.
The incident was reported to policing bosses, before an investigation was launched by the Professional Standards Department.
Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington said: "When a member of Essex Police needs to report sick because they are unwell there is rightly trust and understanding that they will use this period to get well to return to duty.
“Ms Wealls abused this trust and attended a social event with friends. Essex Police will support staff who are ill, but we will not tolerate behaviour that undermines the integrity of the force and brings the hard work of the many into disrepute.”