Police officer found guilty of misconduct named

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, The officer was given a three-year final written warning
  • Author, Katie Waple
  • Role, 91ȱ News

A serving Dorset Police officer found guilty of misconduct after he failed to stop "inappropriate sexualised conversation” on a train has now been named.

Supt Peter Browning was issued with a final written warning that will remain in place for three years.

The panel heard Supt Browning was “aware” of the conversation in April 2022 and that he had “failed in his duty to challenge and stop” it.

The force’s Deputy Chief Constable, Steve Lyne, previously said the “vast majority” of its employees were professional.

A public misconduct hearing held at Dorset Police headquarters in Winfrith, found there was insufficient evidence to prove that Supt Browning actively engaged in the conversation.

He could not be named previously because of a decision made by the panel’s independent chairperson but that restriction has now been lifted.

Mr Lyne said: “This officer failed in his duty to challenge and stop those engaged in the conversation and the outcome of the panel reflects the seriousness of this.

“We know the vast majority of employees within the organisation are professional and do not demonstrate behaviour that has been heard in this hearing."

He said Dorset Police was committed to investigating any "unethical or unacceptable behaviour relating to a member of our organisation", adding: "I would encourage members of the public to report them to the force so they can be thoroughly investigated.”

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