Ex-Dorset Police officer found to have committed gross misconduct
The hearing decided former PC Mike Gardiner would have been dismissed without notice had he not already resigned from the force
A former Dorset Police officer has been found to have committed gross misconduct after failing to accurately record key information in referral notices aiming at safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.
A misconduct hearing held today (26th November 2025) at Dorset Police headquarters in Winfrith considered allegations against former Police Constable Mike Gardiner related to incidents in August 2023.
The allegations revealed that on three occasions, Gardiner completed Public Protection Notices (PPNs) after visiting victims’ homes.
However, a review of body-worn video footage highlighted significant discrepancies between the victims’ statements and the information Gardiner recorded on the Public Protection Notices.
PPNs are used by police to share information with partner agencies and safeguard individuals at risk.
The hearing heard, that over the three occasions Gardiner failed to accurately record details such as reports of injuries, physical and emotional abuse, use of weapons, and alleged breaches of bail conditions, and that this created a significant risk for victims and potential victims.
Gardiner received vulnerability training in 2022 about the information he was required to obtain when dealing with incidents involving rape and serious sexual offences, violence and domestic abuse.
In a statement read to the hearing, it was stated that former PC Gardiner did not dispute his actions were a breach of the standards of professional behaviour
The hearing concluded that the former officer had breached the standards of professional behaviour concerning Honesty and Integrity, and Duties and Responsibilities.
It was also decided that Gardiner, who resigned from the police force on 31st December 2023, would have been dismissed without notice had he still been serving.
In addition, he will be added to the police barred list, preventing him from re-joining the force.
Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell commented: “We expect our officers and staff to accurately record information provided by victims so we can ensure they are safeguarded, and perpetrators are brought to justice.
"Failing to record accurate information exposed victims to potential further harm and fell well below the expected standards of anyone working in our organisation.
“Putting victims first is a Force priority and remains at the heart of everything we do, and I am proud of the dedication shown by the vast majority of officers, staff and volunteers who identify vulnerability and provide appropriate and timely safeguarding activity.”