Six Hampshire Police Officers Found Guilty of Gross Misconduct
Six Hampshire Constabulary officers have been slammed for gross misconduct following an explosive internal probe. Retired Detective Inspector Tim Ireson, Detective Sergeants Oliver Lage and Gregory Willcox, former PC Craig Bannerman, Trainee Detective Constable Andrew Ferguson, and PC James Oldfield were caught up in the scandal.
Covert Spy Operation Uncovers Discriminatory Comments
The investigation kicked off in 2018 after an anonymous tip-off triggered undercover monitoring inside the SOCU North office at the Northern Police Investigation Centre. For three weeks, covert recordings captured racist and discriminatory remarks — none of which were challenged or reported by the officers on duty.
Panel Weighs Evidence Ahead of Punishments
The independent panel spent weeks scrutinising evidence and hearing the officers’ excuses before ruling their behaviour amounted to gross misconduct. The full breakdown of their verdict is expected soon. Now, the hearing pauses for Christmas and will resume in early January to decide what sanctions to hand down.
Hampshire Police Stay Tight-Lipped Amid Legal Process
A Hampshire Police spokesperson said: “We understand there is significant interest in this case and our response to this outcome, however as this remains a live legal process, we will respond fully at the conclusion of the proceedings.”
