PC Mat Hodge has been dismissed from Wiltshire Police without notice following a misconduct hearing that found his behaviour amounted to gross misconduct. The hearing, held between October 1 and 2, 2024, at Wiltshire Police Headquarters, was chaired by Assistant Chief Constable Deb Smith. The panel concluded that PC Hodge breached the Standards of Professional Behaviour relating to honesty and integrity, duties and responsibilities, and discreditable conduct.
The allegations against PC Hodge centred on his failure to deliver a mandatory refresher training module in January 2024, as part of his role as a Firearms Instructor at the Blackrock Specialist Training Centre. Despite not conducting the training, PC Hodge falsely informed his line managers that the officers involved had completed the module.
The hearing upheld the allegations, resulting in PC Hodge’s dismissal without notice. He has also been placed on the national barred list, preventing him from working in policing in the future.
Deputy Chief Constable Craig Dibdin commented: “PC Hodge’s actions were far below the standards expected of him and could have had potentially serious consequences. Thankfully, the issue was uncovered quickly, and all those impacted have since received the necessary training.”
DCC Dibdin added: “We expect nothing but the highest standards of honesty and integrity from our officers, staff, and volunteers. We will continue to root out those who undermine the trust and confidence our communities place in us.”
He also expressed gratitude to those who provided evidence in the case, stating, “It takes courage to report wrongdoing, but it is essential in ensuring we maintain professionalism and accountability.”
In line with Police Conduct Regulations 2020, PC Hodge has 10 working days to appeal the decision.
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