A FORMER Essex Police officer, who formed an inappropriate emotional relationship with a member of the public that they met through the course of their duties, would have been dismissed for gross misconduct had they not resigned, following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The former police constable, who resigned in August 2025 and cannot be named due to reporting restrictions put in place by the disciplinary panel chair, faced a hearing over allegations that her actions breached the police standards of professional behaviour of honesty and integrity, discreditable conduct, and authority, respect and courtesy.
Between December 2022 and October 2023, the officer formed an improper emotional relationship with a complainant in an historic sexual abuse case that the officer was investigating. The relationship, while not sexual, involved exchanging numerous personal messages, sharing private details, and arranging in-person meetings, including visits to the officer’s home.
A two-day misconduct hearing took place remotely, beginning on Monday 1 December.
Chaired by Assistant Chief Constable Glen Pavelin, the panel found that the officer had breached the police standards of professional behaviour relating to:
• discreditable conduct
• honesty and integrity
• authority, respect and courtesy.
The former officer will now be placed on the College of Policing’s barred list.
ACC Pavelin said: “This is a case where an officer’s actions towards a vulnerable complainant were totally unacceptable and their behaviour completely inappropriate.
“It should not need to be said, but anyone who seeks our help, support and advice should never be subjected to such behaviour which falls well below our standards of professionalism.
“It’s important to set the very highest of standards for all our officers, staff and volunteers because, where the standards aren’t met, poor behaviours can have a significant impact on the trust and confidence of the public that we work so hard for.”
The IOPC investigation began following a mandatory conduct referral from Essex Police in October 2023.
