Met Police Officer Caught Paying for Sex – Resigned Before Being Fired
Tristan Downing’s Shameful Fall from Grace
Tristan Downing, assigned to the Central North Command Unit, faced an accelerated misconduct hearing on Friday, 15 July, after pleading guilty in February at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. His disgrace began back in January when undercover police caught him red-handed.
Undercover Operation Nails Officer
During a sting in Edmonton, plainclothes officers watched as Downing arrived in a rented car, paid for a prostitute’s services, and then performed oral sex in a nearby cul-de-sac. The shocking misconduct was uncovered as part of a crackdown on those exploiting sex workers.
Resigned Just Before Being Booted Out
Downing quit the Metropolitan Police Service swiftly, with his last day on July 14, 2022. Temporary Deputy Commissioner Helen Ball confirmed the discreditable conduct allegations, stating he would have been fired without notice if still serving.
Met Police Slam Officer’s Behaviour
“We expect the highest standards of behaviour from our officers both on and off the job, and this officer’s actions fell far short of those standards,” said Commander Andy Carter, heading Camden and Islington policing. “He was apprehended as part of a proactive operation aimed at those who exploit sex workers. The Met is committed to pursuing all officers who violate the law or engage in dishonest or disreputable behaviour.”
