Ex-Acting Sergeant Caught Making Lewd Advances in NW1 Pub
James O’Sullivan, former Acting Police Sergeant with North West Command Unit, has been slammed for gross misconduct. A hearing found he breached professional standards on ‘authority, respect and courtesy’ and committed ‘discreditable conduct’. Had he still been on the force, he would have been booted out immediately – no questions asked.
Inappropriate Behaviour in Public
On 27 July 2020, off-duty O’Sullivan was drinking in a NW1 pub with a junior female officer. There, he crossed the line, making lewd sexual comments, flashing an explicit image, and performing crude gestures directed at her. His actions sparked an internal investigation by the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards.
Resigned Before Formal Dismissal
O’Sullivan resigned on 6 November 2022, prior to being formally dismissed. Until then, he was placed on restricted duties. Detective Superintendent Barry Loader, North West BCU commander, praised the courage of those who reported the misconduct. He said: “I would like to commend the officers who came forward to report O’Sullivan’s actions. I hope this sends a clear message that inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated in the Police Service.”
Barred from Policing for Good
Now, O’Sullivan’s name is on the College of Policing’s Barred List. This blacklist means he cannot work for any police force, local policing bodies, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, or Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services ever again.
