Former Surrey police sergeant accused of inappropriate relationship sentenced

He was accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a victim of domestic abuse

Author: Grace McGachyPublished 4th Aug 2021

A former Surrey Police sergeant accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a victim of domestic abuse has been sentenced.

Stephen Kirkpatrick who was based at Guildford Police Station until he resigned in September 2020 was the officer responsible for investigating the case.

In May, the 36 year old pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office.

Kirkpatrick has been given a four month suspended sentence.

Following his sentencing, internal misconduct proceedings against Kirkpatrick will now take place.

T/Assistant Chief Constable Alison Barlow said:

“Police officers and staff work extremely hard to help and support the most vulnerable people in our communities day in and day out.

“In this case, former sergeant Kirkpatrick not only let a vulnerable victim down but also the wider public who place their trust in policing as well as his police colleagues.

“We expect professionalism from all our employees and this type of behaviour has no place in policing.

“Whilst he resigned from the Force almost a year ago, he will still face gross misconduct proceedings at a later date following his sentence in court.”