Met Police Detective Sacked Over Unauthorized Use of Police Car
Detective Constable Andrew Hardy from the Met’s Central Specialist Crime Command has been dismissed after serious misconduct. At a disciplinary hearing on 30 May, Hardy was found guilty of breaching multiple professional standards, including honesty, integrity, and discreditable conduct.
Unauthorized Joyrides and Crashes
While off duty on 23 March 2023, DC Hardy drove an unmarked police vehicle without permission. During this unauthorised joyride, he caused a collision that damaged several vehicles.
Between October 2022 and March 2023, Hardy took the police car out 240 times, covering nearly 3,884 miles — all without authorisation. He even gained materially from these rides.
Speeding Without Purpose or Permission
In the months leading up to the crash, Hardy repeatedly drove at excessive speeds in the police vehicle while off duty. He had no policing reason for these reckless drives and failed to log any of his journeys, breaking strict rules.
Professional Standards Step In — A Tough Punishment
The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards launched an investigation after the breaches came to light. DC Hardy was swiftly placed on restricted duties during the probe.
Commander Stephen Clayman, Specialist Crime Command, said: “DC Hardy made personal use of a vehicle meant for policing operations and public safety. His actions fall far below the high standard the public expects from us. He has let down his colleagues and recklessly damaged others’ property.
He has rightly been held to account and dismissed without notice.”
Hardy will now be added to the College of Policing’s Barred List, barring him from any future roles within police forces, local policing bodies, or watchdog organisations.
