Former Thames Valley Police detective stuck pins in colleague's photo
Misconduct panel found the actions intentional but not homophobic
A misconduct panel in Oxfordshire has found former detective constable guilty of gross misconduct after he repeatedly stuck pins in photos of a senior officer at a police station.
Over five separate occasions, between July and November 2024, Casper Bangert stuck the pins in the eyes of the officer’s photos.
Bangert admitted to the acts but denied targeting the inspector due to his sexuality, claiming he was unaware of it at the time. He said it was a practical joke meant to boost morale.
The panel examined the motivations, finding the actions deliberate but not homophobically driven.
Bangert accepted breaching standards of 'Authority, Respect, Courtesy' and 'Discreditable Conduct,' but denied violating 'Equality and Diversity.'
The incidents caused the inspector sychological distress, impacting his professional and personal confidence.
Despite findings of misconduct, Bangert expressed remorse for his actions, backed by character references that portrayed him as respectful and non-prejudiced.
The panel concluded the matter as gross misconduct due to the sustained nature of Bangert's actions, affecting both the individual and police service integrity.
Bangert will not face dismissal, as he is no longer serving.
He has the right to appeal the panel's decision.