Gross misconduct proven against former officer

A former officer would have been dismissed after a misconduct hearing found that he exchanged a number of offensive messages with a colleague.

Former PC Colin Stevens, who was previously attached to Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection (PaDP) within Specialist Operations, faced allegations that between 2013 and 2015 he exchanged racist, sexist and misogynistic messages with another serving officer.

After a one-day hearing that concluded on Friday, 10 May, the hearing found that former PC Stevens breached the standards of professional behaviour in regards to authority, respect and courtesy, equality and diversity, discreditable conduct and challenging and reporting improper conduct.

After considering all of the evidence, the hearing concluded that the behaviour of former PC Stevens amounted to gross misconduct and he would have been dismissed had he still been serving.

Stevens retired from the Metropolitan Police in March 2023.

Commander Simon Messinger, Specialist Operations whose responsibilities include PaDP, said: “The language used in these messages is despicable – not only in terms of the racism, but also that he made light of highly traumatic offences including rape.

“I am shocked that anyone who worked in this organisation would find the use of such terms acceptable, but am pleased that the actions of this former officer have been brought to light and he has been dealt with.

“Over the last year significant changes have been made to improve the culture within PaDP. This has included installing a fresh leadership team, strengthened supervision of officers and bringing more women into the command.

“As we continue this work, we are clear that is no place in Specialist Operations, or anywhere in the Met, for officers who do not behave with the upmost professionalism and uphold our values.”

Stevens will now be added to the Barred List held by the College of Policing. Those appearing on the list cannot be employed by police, local policing bodies (PCCs), the Independent Office for Police Conduct or His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.