A British Transport Police (BTP) constable has been dismissed without notice following a public misconduct hearing held in York from September 10 to 13.
The hearing took place at the Professional Standards Department (PSD) Hearing Room. Police Constable Muhammad Patel, who was based in Preston, did not attend the hearing. The panel considered allegations that he breached the standards of professional behaviour, specifically “Honesty and Integrity” and “Discreditable Conduct.”
The allegations stated that PC Patel was witnessed inhaling nitrous oxide from a balloon and possessing the substance while off duty on three separate occasions: in May 2022, February 2023, and October 2023. These incidents reportedly occurred while he was in a car with others.
Additionally, it was alleged that in February 2023, PC Patel submitted a written declaration to BTP’s PSD department regarding the February incident, providing information that contradicted that given by Lancashire Police.
The independent panel found the allegations of Discreditable Conduct and Honesty and Integrity (specifically the dishonesty aspect) to be proven, concluding that the officer had indeed breached the standards of professional behaviour. However, the panel did not find allegations of integrity breaches to be proven.
As a result of these findings, the panel determined that PC Patel’s actions amounted to Gross Misconduct, leading to his dismissal without notice.
PSD Detective Chief Inspector Tracy Goddard-King commented on the case, stating, “Former PC Patel’s behaviour was unacceptable and he was unable to prioritise his responsibilities as a police officer when on or off duty above other influences. His actions undermined the high standards in policing and therefore damaged public confidence in policing. He has therefore been dismissed without notice.”
