Police Boss Gave Speech on Staff Conduct before Sending Sex Messages

We’ve all heard the saying, ‘Do as I say, not as I do’. It’s a phrase often used to highlight the gap between advice and action, but what happens when the person doling out advice is expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct? Recently, the UK witnessed a scandal that left the public and law enforcement communities reeling. A police boss, tasked with lecturing his staff on proper conduct, was found to be sending sexually explicit messages to a female colleague. This is a tale of hypocrisy, double standards, and the urgent need for accountability in our police forces.

The Unbelievable Irony of It All

David Broadway, a senior police manager at Gwent Police, found himself at the centre of a storm when it was revealed that he had been sending sexually suggestive texts to a female colleague. What makes this story particularly appalling is the timing; Broadway had just given a talk on staff conduct following the high-profile murder of Sarah Everard by a Met Police officer. The public and his peers did not miss the paradox in his behaviour, with one person remarking that it reeked of hypocrisy.

The female colleague, who received Broadway’s unsolicited messages, was appalled to see him leading a seminar on inappropriate workplace behaviour. This blatant hypocrisy prompted her to come forward, setting off a chain of events that would eventually lead to Broadway’s resignation.

The Scandal Unfold

A formal complaint was first raised against Broadway in mid-2022. The severity of the charges, which involved remarks about a lady’s attractive physical appearance and explicit solicitations, did not result in Broadway’s immediate suspension. Rather, he maintained his position for a further nine months, receiving full compensation throughout this period.

Only when a second lady stepped forth in May 2023 to voice comparable accusations did Broadway finally receive a suspension. At this point, a third person had already brought a complaint. The inquiry group handling the case unequivocally stated that Broadway could have faced termination due to severe improprieties if he had not voluntarily stepped down.

Police Misconduct and Public Trust

The situation involving Broadway is not unique. Gwent Police, alongside numerous other departments across the UK, are battling continuous controversies that have significantly deteriorated the confidence of the public. The killing of Sarah Everard, at the hands of a Met Police officer on duty, marked a significant turning point, igniting extensive demands for a complete overhaul of the system.

The unfair practices seen in Broadway’s situation are reflective of a more expansive problem within the ranks of the police. When individuals in power fail to live up to the expectations they set for others, it damages the root of public confidence. For those who have suffered at the hands of police misconduct and violence, like those involved in Broadway’s situation, the aftermath can be severely damaging.

The Cost of Doing Nothing

The slow response to the initial complaint against Broadway raises serious questions about the handling of police misconduct cases. Despite Gwent Police’s own disciplinary policy, which categorises sexual misconduct as gross misconduct warranting dismissal, Broadway was allowed to remain in his position. This delay not only extended the victims’ ordeal, but it also cast doubt over the integrity of the entire police department.

The UK’s Independent Office for Police Conduct has expressed disapproval over the case management, probing why the suspension of Broadway was delayed. Sal Naseem, who once held a directorial position within the IOPC, highlighted that typically, an individual under serious accusations of misconduct is instantly put on hold until the completion of an enquiry.

Whistleblowers

In cases like Broadway’s, the courage of whistleblowers cannot be overstated. The first complainant, despite the personal toll it took on her, came forward to report Broadway’s inappropriate behaviour. Her decision to speak out was instrumental in bringing the issue to light and prompting a broader investigation.

However, the support systems for whistleblowers within police forces must be strengthened. Deputy Assistant Commissioner (formerly Deputy Chief Constable) Rachel Williams of Gwent Police has emphasised the need for a culture where officers feel empowered to report misconduct. This is a sentiment echoed by many, but turning words into action requires a concerted effort.

The Role of Leadership

Leadership within police forces plays a crucial role in shaping the culture and conduct of officers and staff. The departing Head Officer, Pam Kelly, from Gwent Police commends the brave people who lodged complaints against Broadway. However, true leadership goes beyond words.

It requires a commitment to fostering a culture of accountability and integrity. This means not only addressing misconduct when it occurs but also proactively working to prevent it. Training programs, clear policies, and robust support systems are essential components of this effort.

If you or someone you know has been affected by police misconduct, https://www.policecomplaint.co.uk’s solicitors can help you.