Ex-Cop Would’ve Faced the Sack for Striking Missing Teen
A former Met police officer dodged dismissal after a misconduct hearing found he broke the rules during a debrief with a missing teenage girl.
Former PC Andrew Gatt Found Guilty of Misconduct
The two-day hearing, ending on Thursday 9 May, ruled that ex-PC Andrew Gatt, from the West Area Command Unit, breached professional conduct standards. He was guilty of improper use of force and discreditable behaviour.
Back in October 2022, Gatt allegedly struck the teenage girl, who had just returned home after being reported missing, while trying to take her mobile phone.
Chief Supt Slams Gatt’s ‘Inappropriate’ Actions
“PC Gatt’s actions towards this young girl were entirely inappropriate and certainly not what we would expect when dealing with someone who may be vulnerable,” said Chief Superintendent Sean Wilson.
“No police officer should use force wrongly – the panel’s verdict was spot on. If he were still serving, he’d have been sacked without question.”
Gatt Resigns and Faces Police Barred List
Andrew Gatt quit the Met in May 2024. He will now be placed on the College of Policing’s Barred List. This blacklist blocks anyone listed from working for police forces, local policing bodies (PCCs), the Independent Office for Police Conduct, His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, and Fire & Rescue Services.
