Force probes Pc cleared of comments to victim
A POLICEMAN cleared of making a “catalogue of completely inappropriate comments” to a domestic violence victim is facing a ten-day disciplinary hearing. Pc Colin Noble, 49, was secretly recorded by the victim making remarks such as “we could be good together” and left the woman feeling “horrible and intimidated” in her home while at a low ebb.
He was acquitted of misconduct in a public office after a week-long trial at Birmingham Crown Court in 2019 but now faces a misconduct hearing by West Midlands Police.
Presenting counsel Barney Branston, speaking on day one of the hearing, said publicity from the trial had prompted other women to come forward. As reported in Police Professional, the panel heard Pc Noble’s conduct towards one victim, labelled Miss X, was “egregious” and she was “clearly uncomfortable with his behaviour”.
It was also told that another woman, Miss C, had been charged with a criminal offence but the police constable still pursued a relationship with her “even while she was still on bail”. Pc Noble was an experienced officer of some 17 years, based at Stechford.
Mr Branston said: “Pc Noble significantly overstepped the mark as to how he should have behaved – seeking to have personal relationships with all these women.”
Addressing the allegations made by Miss X, Mr Branston said: “The intent of what he was saying was plain as day. He had absolutely no idea he was being recorded.
“He was trying it on with Miss X because he wanted some sort of relationship with her. He was behaving entirely inappropriately. “PC Noble’s role was to assist her, and Miss X felt it necessary to record him. This was egregious behaviour toward Miss X.
“She was clearly uncomfortable with his behaviour. He knew he was brazenly crossing the line but proceeded in doing so.” Mr Branston said PC Noble made a number of admissions in interview the day after his contact with Miss X, but “denied any ulterior sordid motive”.
Outlining the allegations made by the three other complainants, he said the officer visited Miss A when “there was no good reason to do so”.
The hearing continues.