Hampshire Police Officers Sacked For Sexism And Homophobia

2 May 2014, 12:10 | Updated: 2 May 2014, 13:54

Three Hampshire Police officers have been sacked for making 'homophobic and sexist comments'.

Detective Sergeant Mark Hall, Detective Constable Andy Holt and PC Colin Campbell, who were all based in Havant, have been dismissed with immediate effect for gross misconduct, after the force referred claims of bullying to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).

Chief Constable Andy Marsh has called their behaviour 'detestable'.

A Hampshire Police statement said:

'Late last year we received allegations of bullying and inappropriate behaviour by individuals within Hampshire Constabulary. This was referred to the IPCC and assessed as a supervised investigation to be undertaken in force.

'A formal hearing was held this week (30 April), and the three officers - Detective Sergeant Mark Hall, Detective Constable Andy Holt, and PC Colin Campbell - all of whom were based in Havant, were dismissed for gross misconduct with immediate effect.'
 
Chief Constable Andy Marsh said:

"The detail of these allegations was extremely serious in nature. The subsequent investigation uncovered evidence of grossly inappropriate and offensive behaviour centred on homophobic and sexist comments about colleagues within the force.
 
“I find the behaviour that we uncovered detestable. It is not something that I will tolerate within Hampshire Constabulary.”

An IPCC spokeswoman confirmed that the issue was referred to it in November last year and it agreed to supervise the force's investigation.

IPCC Commissioner Jennifer Izekor said:

"The language and behaviours of these officers displayed deeply offensive homophobic and sexist attitudes towards others. Their casual and repeated use of demeaning language demonstrated a complete lack of respect for their colleagues and the force can only be stronger without them.

"They have no place in policing and their behaviour fell well below the standards expected by the people of Hampshire. I am satisfied that this case was treated with the seriousness it deserves by Hampshire Police and want to commend the force on the thorough and robust nature of their investigation once these allegations emerged.

"I endorse the action they have taken in dismissing these officers.''