Hampshire Police Staff to Face Misconduct Hearings Over Racist and Homophobic Language
Undercover Probe Exposes Offensive Language in Basingstoke Unit
Hampshire Constabulary is set to hold misconduct hearings for nine of its staff members after an undercover investigation uncovered shocking racist and homophobic language. The probe targeted a specialist serious and organised crime team based in Basingstoke.
Out of 21 staff investigated, eight police officers and one civilian employee were found to have a case to answer. Five others faced management action, one resigned, and three were cleared.
Force and Commissioner Demand Accountability
Police and Crime Commissioner Michael Lane praised the “complex and thorough investigation” and stressed the force’s commitment to high ethical standards.
“Our constabulary is here to protect our communities. With policing powers come responsibilities,” Lane said. “Unacceptable behaviour must be challenged, investigated, and tackled immediately across the organisation.”
Details of Language Use Kept Under Wraps
When the probe first emerged in February, Hampshire Constabulary refused to confirm media reports claiming the offensive language was caught on hidden cameras inside force premises. The full misconduct hearings are due to take place at a later date, promising to reveal more about this serious breach of trust.
