Wiltshire officer dismissed for inappropriately touching colleague
An officer from Wiltshire Police who inappropriately touched a male collegue has been dismissed without notice from the force.
During the incident, which took place at Devizes police station in November 2021, PC Reed, in front of colleagues, had pulled down the officer’s trouser zip, inserted his hand and touched his penis before shouting ‘it’s a small one’.
At a misconduct hearing which took place on Friday (June 17) the officer claimed the incident was ‘banter’, and that he shouldn’t be sacked. He argued it amounted to misconduct rather than gross misconduct, which results in dismissal. He was found guilty of gross misconduct and dismissed without notice.
Wiltshire Police Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills said: “The actions of former Police Constable Adam Reed were not only wholly inappropriate, they violated the dignity of his colleague and, would have caused him significant distress.
“His actions amounted to unwanted sexual conduct and the LQC’s decision to dismiss Adam Reed from Wiltshire Police is completely endorsed by the Force. He will now be placed on the national barred list which will ensure he is not able to work in policing in the future.
“There is no place in Wiltshire Police for anyone who conducts themselves in this way and, further to becoming aware of this incident, the officer was immediately suspended from the organisation.
“The actions of this individual will undoubtedly cause public concern and likely undermine the work of the exceptionally committed members of our organisation who strive to provide an outstanding service to the communities they serve.
“Wiltshire Police remains committed to ensuring each and every officer and staff member discharges their duties to the highest standards and, as this case proves, we will act swiftly and robustly when these are not met. Furthermore, if any member of the community has concerns relating to the professionalism of those who serve within our organisation, we would encourage them to come forward at the earliest opportunity.
“The victim in this case will continue to receive the full support of the organisation.”
