Ex-Wiltshire Cop Caught Fleeing Crash in Marked Police Van
A former Wiltshire Police officer has been slammed by the courts after crashing a marked police van and driving off without stopping – all while on duty.
PC Peter Lawson Found Guilty of Multiple Traffic Offences
Bristol Magistrates heard how 49-year-old PC Peter Lawson, from Devizes, was involved in a two-car collision on the A4 Avenue La Fleche just after 1am on 7 December 2022. Despite driving with blue lights flashing, Lawson failed to stop and give details at the scene.
After the incident, Lawson was identified as the culprit and immediately suspended. He has since quit Wiltshire Police ahead of misconduct proceedings.
Fines and Points Hit Ex-Officer Hard
- £600 fine for failing to stop at the scene
- Five penalty points added to his driving licence
- £600 fine for careless driving
- Ordered to pay £775 prosecution costs plus a £480 victim surcharge
Lawson denied the charges but was found guilty after a trial.
Police Slam Lawson’s ‘Illegal Actions’
“We expect police officers to reflect the highest standards of conduct while carrying out their duties,” said Detective Superintendent Liz Coles. “Clearly Peter Lawson’s illegal actions fell far short of the expectations that the public should expect of a serving police officer. His actions have potentially damaging consequences in terms of the trust and confidence of the communities we serve.”
Misconduct proceedings are now underway as the scandal continues to unfold.
