A police officer who took a photograph of a deceased person on his personal mobile phone before attempting to show the image to colleagues has been dismissed without notice. PC Timothy Robson, who was based on the North East Area Command, faced a misconduct hearing over his behaviour after attending a sudden death on September 10, 2025. The hearing found that Robson took a photograph of the deceased person using his personal mobile phone despite having no legitimate policing purpose for doing so. He subsequently showed, or offered to show, the photograph to several colleagues.

Misconduct allegations proven

A misconduct panel found a number of allegations against Robson proven. His actions were found to have breached the standards of professional behaviour relating to discreditable conduct; authority, respect and courtesy; and duties and responsibilities. Following the findings, Robson was dismissed without notice. He will also be placed on the College of Policing barred list, preventing him from rejoining the police or working for a number of other policing-related organisations.

‘Acted abhorrently’

Superintendent Jai Singh, from the North East Area Command, condemned Robson’s actions and apologised to those affected. He said: “PC Robson has acted abhorrently and without any thought for the dignity of the individual and their loved ones. I would like to apologise to those affected by his actions and for any additional distress caused. “I am grateful to the colleagues who came forward to report this behaviour, enabling us to take decisive action against an officer whose conduct fell significantly short of the high standards we expect of all our officers and staff.” The force said the action taken followed colleagues reporting Robson’s behaviour.