Officer who saved tanker driver’s life jailed for harassing ex-wife
A police officer who sent abusive messages to his ex-wife and her family members will spend five months behind bars.
Dorset Police Constable Andrew Loveless, 45, was also issued with a five-year restraining order preventing him from contacting his victim.
Southampton Magistrates’ Court heard the officer also sent emails to acquaintances of his ex-wife following the breakdown of his marriage and met with a friend at a pub where he shared malicious information. PC Loveless admitted one count of harassment without violence on Monday (March 12).
He was suspended from duty following the allegation and a misconduct hearing will be held “in due course”, Dorset Police said. Tim Whittle, of Dorset Police’s Professional Standards Department (PSD), said: “Dorset Police takes all such allegations extremely seriously and a full and robust investigation was initiated by the PSD.
“I would like to praise the victim for her bravery in coming forward, reporting the offences and supporting the prosecution. “We expect the highest standards of professionalism and integrity from our staff and officers and I would like to reassure the public that we will proactively investigate any officer or staff member believed to be involved in criminal or corrupt behaviour.”
PC Loveless was previously awarded a chief constable’s commendation after rescuing a tanker driver who had collided with an articulated trailer loaded with hay bales. The hay bales – each weighing half a tonne – fell and crushed the cab, and the driver was trapped by his legs in the burning vehicle. The officer waded through thick smoke to pull the driver out and save his life.
