Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
National
Sian Norris

Dozens of UK police officers disciplined over sexual contact with crime victims and witnesses

A bandstand on Clapham Common in London is surrounded by floral tributes to Sarah Everard, who was murdered by police officer Wayne Couzens in 2021.
A bandstand on Clapham Common in London is surrounded by floral tributes to Sarah Everard, who was murdered by police officer Wayne Couzens in 2021. Photograph: Alberto Pezzali/AP

Nearly 80 police officers in 22 forces in England and Wales have faced disciplinary action for inappropriate sexual relationships or sexual contact with victims, witnesses and suspects since 2018, the Observer can reveal.

The data, obtained through freedom of information laws, shows the majority of those facing disciplinary action were dismissed or resigned before they were dismissed. However, 10 officers remained in their jobs, facing lesser sanctions such as written warnings, suspension, or management action. At least two faced criminal proceedings. Nearly all of the offending officers were men, and all but two of the victims female.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.