Detective sergeant sacked for sexually touching junior officer
A Kent Police detective sergeant has been sacked for inappropriate sexual conduct, following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
Detective Sergeant Gary Stamp was found to have sexually touched a more junior female police constable in 2020 on two occasions at a police station, including one incident when both were on duty. He later dissuaded her from reporting the matter after she objected to his behaviour, the IOPC said.
A disciplinary panel found his conduct was in breach of the police standards of professional behaviour relating to authority, respect and courtesy; discreditable conduct; and honesty and integrity.
The panel decided the case for gross misconduct was proven and that Det Sgt Stamp should be dismissed without notice.
He will also be placed on the policing barred list.
IOPC Director Mel Palmer said: “Detective Sergeant Gary Stamp abused his position as a more established and senior officer by sexually touching a junior female police constable.
“His actions were dishonest, unprofessional and inappropriate and he has been dismissed as a result of his behaviour.”
During its investigation, which began in October 2020 following a mandatory referral from Kent Police, the IOPC obtained an account from the junior female officer and investigators interviewed Det Sgt Stamp under criminal and misconduct caution. Witness inquiries were also conducted and phone evidence analysed.
“We concluded our investigation in May 2021 and sent a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to consider two charges of sexual assault,” the IOPC said. “In October 2021, the CPS decided not to issue any criminal charges.”