A former Sussex Police officer has been barred from policing for gross misconduct after an accelerated hearing proved serious breaches of professional standards.
False CCTV Claim Sparks Investigation
Jessica Newey, a detective constable, appeared at the hearing on March 19. She was found guilty of dishonesty, failing to follow orders, neglecting duties, and discreditable conduct. The panel revealed she falsely claimed to have reviewed CCTV footage in a criminal trial.
Newey later admitted the deception to her supervisor. Sussex Police launched an internal probe, involving the Professional Standards Department and the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
Career Over After Serious Misconduct
- The criminal trial’s outcome was unaffected by her false claim.
- No evidence of similar misconduct was found in other cases she handled.
- Gross misconduct proven on all counts.
- Newey had resigned before the hearing but would have been dismissed otherwise.
- She has now been added to the College of Policing barred list, banning her from future police work.
“Maintaining the integrity of investigations is crucial to securing justice for victims. That relies on the honesty and diligence of our officers and, where that falls short, we will take appropriate action,” said Detective Superintendent Andy Wolstenholme.
“While this was only flagged because the officer reported it herself, it was still a serious breach. Had she not resigned, she would have been dismissed.”
