Two Sussex cops faced fast-track misconduct hearings at Sussex Police HQ, Lewes, on Wednesday 19 April.
Speedy Hearings for Ex-Officers
Accelerated misconduct hearings are called when evidence is crystal clear. They aim to boot officers out quickly or place former officers on the barred list, protecting the public without delay.
PC Matthew Jukes Caught with Prohibited Porn
Ex-PC Matthew Jukes, 23, from West Sussex division, was accused of downloading illegal pornography. Sussex Police launched a criminal probe after he admitted bulk downloading, including some while on duty. He was suspended and subsequently resigned before Chief Constable Shiner could dismiss him. The evidence showed clear breaches of professional standards.
PC Daniel Matthews’s Drug Bust
Former PC Daniel Matthews, 48, also from West Sussex, was found with Class A, B, and C drugs while off duty. He was suspended then accepted a police caution for drug possession. Like Jukes, Matthews resigned before being formally dismissed. The misconduct was ruled “discreditable conduct” by Chief Constable Shiner.
Both officers escaped formal dismissal only because they resigned first. Their cases highlight Sussex Police’s zero tolerance for criminal behaviour, even from those once sworn to uphold the law.
