Ex-Detective Inspector Slammed for Online Harassment of Women
A former Bedfordshire Police detective inspector has been officially blasted for gross misconduct after a disciplinary panel found he harassed multiple women online and abused his police status to gain their trust.
DI Andy Southam Retired Days Before Hearing
Andy Southam, who joined Bedfordshire Police back in 1997, quit just days before his misconduct hearing kicked off. Despite his exit, the panel ruled he would have been booted from the force if he’d stayed.
The charges involve nine women he met through a Christian dating site between 2015 and June 2022. Southam admitted wrongdoing with seven of them, so the panel dropped probes into the other two.
“Intimidating and Inappropriate” Behaviour Exposed
Southam was accused of lying about his rank, sending unwanted sexual comments, and ignoring clear requests to stop contacting the women. One woman ended things in 2016, citing controlling behaviour, yet Southam still messaged her off and on for another six years.
Another victim asked him to stop in July 2021. When he didn’t, she reported him, leading to an arrest for suspected harassment in September 2021.
Senior Officers Condemn the Misconduct
Deputy Chief Constable Dan Vajzovic slammed Southam’s conduct:
“This was a pattern of unwelcome, inappropriate and at times intimidating behaviour. His persistence has undoubtedly damaged the trust women and girls have in policing.”
Vajzovic called Southam’s retirement before the hearing a “cynical move,” but confirmed the case went ahead to put his name on the policing barred list — blocking any chance of a law enforcement comeback.
Victims Urged to Speak Out
The force encourages anyone affected by Southam’s actions or similar issues to come forward and seek support.
