Former Essex Police officer would have been sacked for inappropriate relationship, panel finds
The women met while the officer was investigating an historic sexual abuse case
A former Essex Police officer who formed an inappropriate relationship with a member of the public they met while investigating an historic sexual abuse case would have been dismissed for gross misconduct had she not resigned.
The officer stepped down in August 2025 before a misconduct hearing could take place. She cannot be named due to reporting restrictions set by the disciplinary panel chair.
An investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) found the officer exchanged personal messages and arranged meetings, including visits to her home, with the vulnerable complainant.
Although the relationship was not sexual, it breached police standards of honesty and integrity, discreditable conduct, and authority, respect and courtesy.
The misconduct hearing was held remotely over two days, starting on 1st December, chaired by Essex Police Assistant Chief Constable Glen Pavelin.
The panel concluded that the former officer's actions undermined public trust and professionalism. Their decision means she will be added to the College of Policing’s barred list on 6th January 2026, preventing her from working for any UK police force in the future.
ACC Glen 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 in October 2023 following a mandatory conduct referral from Essex Police.