Sussex Custody Sergeant dismissed for discriminatory language
Sussex Police has revealed an officer in Eastbourne has been dismissed for ‘discriminatory comments’.
Sergeant Ian Walker, based in Eastbourne’s Custody Suite, faced gross misconduct allegations at an accelerated misconduct hearing on Thursday (November 12).
On Tuesday, September, 22 colleagues of Sergeant Walker claimed to have heard him make a range of discriminatory comments to colleagues that were homophobic, ablest and racist.
Misconduct proceedings were launched as soon as the incident was reported, focused on breaches of the standards of professional behaviour relating to discreditable conduct; authority, respect and courtesy; equality and diversity; and orders and instructions.
The hearing found all allegations proven and Sergeant Walker was dismissed without notice and will be placed on the College of Policing’s barred list to ensure he can never work in policing again.”
Detective Chief Superintendent Miles Ockwell said: “The language and views expressed by this officer were truly appalling and entirely at odds with our culture of inclusivity within Sussex Police.
“We took action as soon as this information came to light and Sergeant Walker was removed from the workplace immediately.
“While Sergeant Walker’s behaviour is everything we stand against in Sussex Police, I am heartened that his views were rejected by his colleagues, who reported the matter to our Professional Standards Department.
“Tackling discriminatory behaviour relies on upstanding colleagues having the courage to call out unacceptable language and behaviour. When this happens, we will take action. Sergeant Walker has rightly been dismissed.”