Officer dismissed after misconduct hearing

An officer has been dismissed following the conclusion of a misconduct hearing.

PC Samantha Edwards, who was attached to the North Area Basic Command Unit, was found to have breached the Standards of Professional Behaviour in relation to discreditable conduct and fitness for duty at a hearing on Monday, 18 September.

In January, PC Edwards was subject to a with-cause drugs test and a positive result for cocaine and cannabis was returned in direct contradiction of the Met’s substance misuse policy.

Assistant Commissioner Barbara Gray found that the officer had committed gross misconduct in relation to the allegations and PC Edwards was dismissed without notice.

Detective Chief Superintendent Caroline Haines, commander for policing in Enfield and Haringey, said: “It is disappointing that any officer considers drug use acceptable, whether they are on or off duty.

“As police officers we have a duty to provide the public with the best service possible and that standard cannot be met by anyone under the influence of drugs.

“Any officer suspected of illegal drug use will be tested, and where appropriate, held accountable.”

PC Edwards will now be placed on the College of Policing barred list meaning she cannot serve as a police officer or in a number of other related roles in the future.