Western Daily Press (Saturday)
PC banned from force after sex with vulnerable woman
APOLICE officer has been sacked after having a sexual relationship with a vulnerable woman. PC Sean Ford began the relationship with the woman after taking a statement from her in connection with a police investigation. He had known the woman for several years before the incident.
The officer, who served with Dorset Police, was found guilty of gross misconduct and dismissed following a disciplinary hearing.
The hearing coincided with the sentencing of PC Wayne Couzens for the kidnap, rape and murder of Sarah Everard in London.
Policing Minister Kit Malthouse said the Everard case had struck a “devastating blow to the confidence that people have in police officers”.
Dorset Police said PC Ford had breached the standards of professional behaviour of honesty and integrity, authority, respect and courtesy and discreditable conduct.
A public hearing heard he had accepted he had committed misconduct and breached the standards of professional behaviour of authority, respect and courtesy, but denied gross misconduct.
The panel found he was guilty of gross misconduct and he was dismissed from the force. He will also be placed on the national policing barred list.
Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya said: “Our officers are dutybound to adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity at all times and it is very disappointing that an officer has been found guilty of gross misconduct.
“The public expect and deserve to have trust and confidence in their police force, so I hope the outcome of this case sends out a clear message to our officers, staff and to the public that we take misconduct very seriously and we will fully and robustly investigate anyone who is suspected of not conducting themselves in accordance with the standards expected.
“If you have any concerns in respect of any member of the organisation who is alleged to have failed to maintain the highest of standards and behaviour, we would encourage you to please report your concerns to Dorset Police so they can be thoroughly investigated.”