Cop Axed for Gross Misconduct After Snooping on Locals
Sergeant Richard Proctor, once part of Greater Manchester Police’s City of Manchester district, has been kicked out of the force after a shock Accelerated Misconduct Hearing revealed serious wrongdoing.
He ’Made a Mistake’ – But it Cost Him His Career
Proctor admitted he had ‘made a mistake’ and was ‘sincerely sorry’. However, the damage was done. The hearing found he had repeatedly abused his position, spying on people he knew or took an interest in with no policing reason.
- On nine occasions, Proctor ran checks on individuals linked to him personally.
- On 22 occasions, he leaked sensitive information to third parties.
Chief Constable Fires Back: ’Unacceptable and Deliberate Breach’
Chief Constable Stephen Watson made it clear Proctor’s actions amounted to gross misconduct, saying:
“Sergeant Proctor has accepted he breached professional standards — discreditable conduct and confidentiality. These breaches are proven and serious. Despite his past record, dismissal without notice was the only option.”
Watson added: “Proctor’s criminal convictions confirm this was deliberate and persistent. The information he disclosed was highly sensitive, violating people’s privacy. His behaviour was simply unacceptable.”
GMP Promise Crackdown on Corruption
Superintendent Phil Duffy from GMP’s Professional Standards Branch vowed the force is serious about rooting out corruption under new leadership. He said:
“The Force Vetting Unit works hard to ensure only the right people join GMP. We demand the highest professional standards on and off duty from every officer.” “Proctor blatantly ignored GMP policies and laws, damaging public trust—trust which the vast majority of our officers work tirelessly to uphold.” “The Chief Constable’s swift dismissal of Proctor shows how seriously we treat those who betray public confidence through criminal or unethical behaviour.”
Greater Manchester Police are sending a clear message: abuse of power will not be tolerated.
