A former Devon & Cornwall Police officer has been found culpable of gross misconduct following a public misconduct hearing.

Former Police Sergeant Steven Gardner had breached the Standards of Professional Behaviour in the police.

Former PS Gardner was suspended from duty following a report made in August 2021 that he had engaged in sexual behaviour with a member of the public.

He retired from the Force in December 2021, while under investigation.

Had he still been serving he would have been dismissed. His details will be submitted to the College of Policing Barred List.

He retired from the Force in December 2021, while under investigation.

Superintendent Jo Arundale, from the Force’s Professional Standards Department, said: “We expect all officers and staff to conduct themselves in line with the Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Behaviour. Former Police Sergeant Steven Gardner has been found for not aligning with those standards and the panel ruled that his actions amounted to gross misconduct and the only suitable outcome would have been dismissal had he still been a serving officer.

“Ensuring the highest standards and ethics within the Force remains a top priority and the public can be assured that any wrongdoing or unacceptable behaviour such as this will be subject to robust action.

“If you have any concerns over the conduct of a member of staff, officer or volunteer, I would encourage you to contact our Professional Standards Department for the matters to be fully investigated.”

The full outcome of the hearing can be read here.