Ex-cop admits inappropriate fling with domestic abuse victim
A former Barnsley police officer has pleaded guilty to having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a female domestic abuse victim. Liam Mills, 34, appeared at Sheffield Crown Court on Thursday 28 July, admitting two counts of misconduct in public office and a data protection breach.
Colleagues blow whistle on Mills’ shocking behaviour
Worried colleagues who learned about Mills’ actions didn’t stay silent. They swiftly reported him to the force’s Counter Corruption Unit. Mills was immediately suspended and later resigned from South Yorkshire Police.
Fast-tracked hearing leads to ban from police service
With Mills no longer serving, an accelerated misconduct hearing ruled he would have been dismissed. He’s now on the police barred list – meaning he’s banned from working in law enforcement for good.
“I am acutely aware of how appalled our communities will rightly be to hear about the offences committed by this former police officer,” said Deputy Chief Constable Tim Forber. “Such behaviour has no place in South Yorkshire Police.”
“When others in Mills’ team became aware of what was going on, they followed the appropriate procedures and reported it. This case shows our commitment to rooting out those who don’t reflect true policing values and reassures the public we act quickly and robustly.”
Sentencing date set for September
Mills is due to be sentenced on 30 September 2022. The case serves as a stark warning that breaches of trust within the police force will be exposed and punished.
