Julian King defends officer in Dorset Police Misconduct Hearing
June 5, 2023
Julian King from Exchange Chambers represented a police officer from Dorset Police in a two-week hearing held at Dorset Police Headquarters.
PC L was one of five officers facing allegations of gross misconduct in respect of allegations of improper use of WhatsApp messages, and bullying and offensive behaviour within the workplace.
Julian made a successful submission of no case to answer after the first week of the hearing in respect of allegations concerning failing to challenge alleged racist behaviour. At the close of the evidence, the Panel found the substantive allegations were not proved against the officer. A finding of Misconduct only, was reached based on certain limited admissions (for messages that were found to be neither racist nor homophobic). The officer received a written warning with no further sanction. A second officer was given a final written warning. The behaviour of the three other officers was found to amount to gross misconduct, with sanction to follow on a later date.
Julian was instructed by Alan Ridler of Straw & Pearce Solicitors.
