Ex-Cop in Hot Water Over Shocking Domestic Abuse Scandal
Former sergeant Stephen Kirkpatrick, 36, faced Guildford Crown Court on Monday (24 May) over claims he had an inappropriate sexual relationship with a domestic abuse victim while investigating her case.
Shocking Abuse of Trust at Surrey Police
Kirkpatrick, once based at Guildford police station, quit the force in September 2020. The scandal emerged earlier that year, prompting Surrey Police to report the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct in January 2020.
He has pleaded guilty and will be sentenced at Guildford Crown Court on 15 July.
Police Boss Condemns ‘Utterly Appalling’ Conduct
“An officer engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a victim of domestic abuse is utterly appalling and a complete breach of the trust that the public rightly places in police officers,” said Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Alison Barlow.
“If officers breach that trust, then they will be investigated and will have to face the consequences of their actions.”
“Cases such as this have the ability to really undermine public confidence but his actions do not reflect the hard work that officers and staff in Surrey Police do every day in protecting those who need us, particularly those who are vulnerable.”
“Kirkpatrick has pleaded guilty to the offence he was charged with and will face gross misconduct proceedings once he has been sentenced.”
Gross misconduct case to follow sentencing
After his court sentencing on 15 July, Kirkpatrick will face internal misconduct hearings. Surrey Police vow to act firmly against any breaches of trust by their officers.
