PC accused of sexual misconduct is dismissed

A police constable accused of sexual misconduct has been dismissed without notice following a disciplinary hearing.

Peter Dumbarton, 27, formerly of Northamptonshire Police, was accused of breaching standards of professional behaviour by engaging in "discreditable conduct" with someone referred to as "Miss A" on 15 January 2019.

At the hearing, between 21 and 24 January, a panel decided the allegations were proven and that dismissal without notice was the only "appropriate outcome".

Mr Dumbarton, who was acquitted of rape by a jury at Northampton Crown Court in connection with Miss A's allegations, was present at the hearing and denied misconduct.

The hearing centred on Mr Dumbarton's behaviour during a sexual encounter with Miss A after they had returned to his house after a night out.

Ash Tuckley, the force's deputy chief constable said: "The courage of 'Miss A' in speaking up and engaging with the misconduct investigation is remarkable.

"I want to assure people that when reports of this nature are received by the Professional Standards Department, they will be investigated sensitively and thoroughly.

"This officer's conduct can only be seen as wholly discreditable and serves to undermine public confidence in the police.

"Whether on or off-duty, police officers must always uphold standards of behaviour and integrity.

"Rooting out those officers who do not uphold the highest of standards is the right thing to do in order to ensure public confidence and the safety of the public and our wider workforce."

Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.