Former Salisbury police officer's action 'amount to gross misconduct'
Pete Burden would have been dismissed if he hadn't already resigned
The actions of a former Wiltshire Police officer, who worked in Salisbury, have amounted to gross misconduct.
A disciplinary hearing at the force has concluded Pete Burden would have been dismissed had he not already resigned.
In May 2022, Burden's been judged to have 'acted in an unprofessional manner' - lying to his supervisor about making home visits while on duty.
The actions breached the Standards of Professional Behaviour for police officers of discreditable conduct, duties and responsibilities and honesty and integrity.
Two further allegations weren't upheld by the panel.
Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills said:
“The actions of former Police Constable Burden fell well below the exemplary standards of professionalism that the public quite rightly expect from all police officers and staff. Upon becoming aware of his behaviour, he was immediately suspended from his role and an investigation commenced by the Force Professional Standards department.
“Mr Burden resigned from his role earlier this year, however, had he not, he would have been dismissed without notice from the force today. There is no place in Wiltshire Police for anyone who conducts themselves in this manner. He will now be placed on the national barred list which will ensure he will not be able to work in policing in future.
“His actions undermine the work of our committed officers and staff who are dedicated to providing the best service possible to the public. We are committed to ensuring every single member of our organisation carries out their duties to the highest standards and we will act robustly if this is found to not be the case.
“Further, I would encourage any member of the community who may have concerns about the conduct or professionalism of any of our officers or staff to contact the Force Professional Standards Department, Crimestoppers or the Independent Office for Police Conduct.”