IPCC found two officers had cases to answer

A spokesman for Kent Police said: “In January 2014, Kent Police asked the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) to review its response to information received by officers investigating a series of sexual assaults which had taken place in the Ashford and Chatham areas between 2010 and 2013.

“The investigation specifically focused on the investigative steps taken from September 2012 and whether they were conducted in a timely manner.

“The officers under review were not suspended and continued to work for Kent Police in alternative roles while the force assisted the IPCC with its investigations.

“At the conclusion of the review, the IPCC found two officers had cases to answer.

“Both the IPCC and Kent Police have agreed that one detective constable will face management action for failing to complete a DNA test in a reasonable time.

“A second officer, a detective inspector, was found to have a case to answer for misconduct as it was his responsibility to ensure investigative actions were completed. The officer retired prior to the IPCC’s review and therefore has not faced a misconduct hearing.

“Although the IPCC found there is no case to answer against three other officers, Kent Police has decided to take the opportunity to implement management action in their cases to improve learning and understanding.

“Throughout the IPCC review, Kent Police has remained in contact with the IPCC assisting with its investigations. Both the IPCC and Kent Police have remained in contact with the victims in the criminal case to keep them updated on any developments.”

‘Officers under review were not suspended and continued to work in alternative roles’