Former Surrey police sergeant pleads guilty to misconduct in public office
He was accused of having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a victim of domestic abuse
Last updated 26th May 2021
A former Surrey Police sergeant accused of having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a victim of domestic abuse has appeared in court.
Stephen Kirkpatrick who was based at Guildford Police Station until he resigned in September 2020 was the officer responsible for investigating the case.
The 36 year old pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office on Monday (24 May) following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
Kirkpatrick is due to be sentenced o 15 July at Guildford Crown Court.
IOPC regional director Graham Beesley said:
“Cases where officers abuse their position for sexual purposes are among the serious examples of corruption we investigate.
“The public has a right to expect police officers to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism – and that those who fail to do this will be investigated and dealt with robustly.
“Now former PS Kirkpatrick has pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office he is paying the price and has a criminal record alongside his name.”
In a statement, the IOPC said:
"Our investigation began in January 2020 after the mandatory referral of a complaint by Surrey Police.
"We provided a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and their initial decision not to authorise charges was successfully appealed by the complainant through the Victim’s Right to Review (VRR) process in March 2021.
"Mr Kirkpatrick will now face a gross misconduct proceedings for breaches of the standards of professional behaviour in relation to conduct and authority, respect and courtesy which will be arranged by Surrey Police."