Gross misconduct hearing dismisses officer for sexual and physical abuse

Gross misconduct has been proven against an officer who subjected a woman to sexual and physical abuse over a number of years.

A gross misconduct hearing, which concluded on Friday, 30 January, determined that PC Ian Williams be dismissed without notice. This was after the panel considered various allegations of assault and sexual assault made against him by a female victim who was known to him.

Detective Chief Superintendent Andy Day, head of the officer’s command, said: “We commend the victim’s exceptional bravery in coming forward, which allowed us to hold the officer to account for his deplorable actions. She continues to receive our full support.

"This case reinforces our commitment to improving public confidence as we continue our work to strengthen standards across the organisation.”

PC Williams was found to have breached the police standards of professional behaviour relating to discreditable conduct.

He will now be placed on the barred list held by the College of Policing. Those appearing on the list cannot be employed by police, local policing bodies, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, or His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.