Former Thames Valley sergeant would have been dismissed for gross misconduct
Panel concludes Paul Bentley's actions justified dismissal for creating hostile work environment
A misconduct investigation into a former Thames Valley police sergeant concluded that he would have been dismissed without notice if still serving due to gross misconduct.
The hearing, held from 28th to 30th April 2026, examined allegations against former Sergeant Bentley regarding inappropriate and unprofessional conduct towards a junior colleague between March and August 2024.
The allegations included communicating with the colleague via Snapchat while off duty, commenting on their Instagram appearances, making remarks about having children together, engaging in unwanted physical contact, and complaining about the colleague's reluctance to hug him.
The panel, led by DCC Paul Mills QPM, assessed the former officer's behaviour as a significant breach of the Standards of Professional Behaviour.
Their investigation found Bentley guilty of abusing his position of authority as a sergeant, creating an undue power imbalance.
The panel determined this constituted gross misconduct, supported by testimonies from several colleagues who reported their concerns to the Professional Standards Department.
Despite Bentley admitting to much of the conduct and expressing remorse, the panel emphasised the cumulative impact of his actions on the work environment, causing emotional distress and anxiety.
Bentley resigned from the force in April 2025 during the investigation, but his actions would have led to dismissal based on the panel’s findings.
The decision reflects the police's commitment to maintaining high standards, leadership, and public trust in policing.