Officer who made unwanted sexual comments about female colleague is dismissed

An officer who made inappropriate and unwanted sexual comments about a female colleague has been dismissed without notice, following an investigation by the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards.

PC Joseph Ellis, attached to the Central West Basic Command Unit, faced a six-day misconduct hearing to answer allegations he had breached standards of professional behaviour in respect of discreditable conduct.

Having considered all the evidence, the panel dismissed him without notice at the conclusion of the hearing on Thursday, 23 January.

Between April and May 2022, Ellis made inappropriate sexualised comments in relation to a number of female colleagues.

An investigation was launched in June 2022 by the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards and Ellis was placed on restricted duties while enquiries were carried out.

Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah, in charge of policing for Central West, said: “Ellis’ language and behaviour was completely unacceptable and it will not be tolerated in the Met.

“I fully support the decision for Ellis to be dismissed without notice, I hope this outcome demonstrates how we are rooting out those who do not demonstrate the standards we demand from our officers.

“I would like to recognise the courage and professionalism of the officers who challenged this behaviour and apologise to Ellis’ female colleague who was subjected to his unwanted and vile behaviour.”

Following the hearing Ellis 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 (PCCs), the Independent Office for Police Conduct or His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.