A police officer has resigned from Gwent Police in Wales after sending racist and homophobic messages to colleagues, with a misconduct panel ruling that his actions warranted dismissal.
PC Michael Hill quit just hours before he was due to be dismissed over allegations of gross misconduct. He sent a series of offensive messages targeting Asian people and gay men, including racist slurs and derogatory remarks about a security guard.
The panel also heard allegations that Hill had discussed switching off his body-worn camera so he could assault someone.
Hill admitted sending the messages and accepted responsibility for his conduct. All 19 allegations against him were found proven during the misconduct proceedings.
Assistant Chief Constable John Wade, who chaired the panel, described the messages found on Hill’s phone as appalling and inappropriate. He said the communications fell far below the standards expected of a serving police officer, whether on or off duty.
Wade explained that Gwent Police had agreed to handle the misconduct proceedings even though many of the allegations dated back to before Hill joined the force in South Wales. The decision was made in agreement with his former police service to ensure the allegations were properly addressed.
He added that the process was intended to prevent individuals whose conduct was incompatible with policing from returning to the profession.
Gwent Police also highlighted its ongoing efforts to improve workplace culture, strengthen public trust and confidence, and enhance vetting procedures to ensure officers meet the standards expected of them.
Although Hill had resigned, the panel ordered his dismissal in his absence. He is also set to be added to the College of Policing’s barred list, preventing him from working in policing again.
