Former officer engaged in 'inappropriate' sexual, verbal and written communication with colleague
A former Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) officer has had allegations of gross misconduct proven following the conclusion of a hearing.
Former Detective Sergeant Marc Tuffrey, who was attached to the North West Command Unit, was subject to a private hearing from Tuesday, April 27, to Wednesday, April 28, to answer allegations that his conduct amounted to a breach of the standards of professional behaviour in respect of discreditable conduct, authority, respect and courtesy and equality and diversity.
It was alleged that between January and September 2019, former Det Sgt Tuffrey engaged in inappropriate sexual, verbal and written communications with a police officer ‘DC A’.
It was also alleged that on August 9, 2019, while on duty, he behaved in an unwanted sexual manner towards DC A.
A further allegation stated that between November 2018 and September 2019, former Det Sgt Tuffrey made discriminatory comments, both verbal and written, in the presence of members of his team.
It was also alleged that between January and September 2019, in private messages to DC A, he made discriminatory and offensive comments.
A final allegation against the former detective sergeant was that that between March and April 2019, while on duty, he behaved in a discriminatory manner towards DC A concerning religious beliefs.
The independent legally qualified chair found the allegations to be proven. Had he still been a serving officer, Det Sgt Tuffrey would have been dismissed without notice.
Commander Paul Betts of the Directorate of Professional Standards said: “This type of behaviour has absolutely no place within the Met and these offences are a blatant abuse of the trust his position as a police officer and a supervisor afforded Marc Tuffrey. Everyone across the Metropolitan Police Service will be extremely disappointed at these disgraceful actions.
“I regret that DC A was subject to such abhorrent treatment that is so far away from our standards and values. The MPS will always investigate such allegations thoroughly, support those who report them and take appropriate action to end such behaviour by our officers or members of police staff.”
