Ex-Dorset Cop Found Guilty of Sexual Misconduct Against Female Colleagues
A former Dorset Police constable has been slammed for unwanted touching and lewd comments to female colleagues. Christopher Maidment was found guilty of gross misconduct and would have faced dismissal if he hadn’t already quit the force.
Special Hearing Exposes Shocking Behaviour
On 21 September 2021, Dorset Police held a Special Case Hearing at Devon & Cornwall Police HQ in exeter/" title="Exeter" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Exeter. The hearing uncovered Maidment’s numerous breaches of professional standards, including sexualised behaviour both on and off duty.
The Crown came armed with evidence from Dorset Police’s Counter Corruption Unit. Their investigation revealed Maidment bombarded female colleagues with harassing messages and physical contact between 2019 and 2021.
Faced with the mountain of proof, Maidment admitted to gross misconduct and resigned before the hearing concluded.
Chief Constable Condemns ‘Serious’ Offences
Chief Constable Sawyer said: “The case is serious, with a deep impact on the victims. Maidment was warned multiple times that his behaviour was unacceptable.”
Though Maidment tried to beat the axe by resigning, Dorset Police placed him on the national barred list, banning him from any future policing role.
Dorset Police Back Victims and Fight Violence Against Women
Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya praised those who stepped forward: “I commend the bravery of the six women and witnesses who reported this vile behaviour. We continue to support them fully.”
“There is zero tolerance for misconduct. Dorset Police promotes a safe, inclusive culture with no place for harassment.”
The force has introduced bystander training and a survivor’s group to support victims of gender-based violence within the ranks. They’re also leading a force-wide project tackling Violence Against Women and Girls in Dorset communities.
Dorset Police has beefed up its team of special sexual offence liaison officers and works closely with the Crown Prosecution Service to nail offenders.
How to Report Police Misconduct
If you suspect police corruption or inappropriate relationships, report it immediately:
- Call Dorset Police on 101
- Email 123
- Report anonymously via Crimestoppers at Crimestoppers-uk.org or freephone 0800 555 111
