January 21st 2024.
A former police officer, Kia Pulford Stone, has recently been in the news after pleading guilty to assault by beating and criminal damage. The incidents occurred in Wigan, Greater Manchester on March 14 and 16 last year. Pulford Stone, who was still serving as an officer at the time, was charged after attacking a woman and then damaging her car in a separate incident.
The severity of the charges led to an accelerated misconduct hearing by Merseyside Police's Professional Standards Department. After reviewing the evidence, Chief Constable Serena Kennedy concluded that Pulford Stone would have been dismissed for gross misconduct had she not already resigned from her position. This decision also resulted in Pulford Stone's name being added to the College of Policing Barred List, effectively preventing her from working in any policing role in the UK.
In a statement, Chief Constable Kennedy stated, "The evidence in this case is clear and indisputable. Pulford Stone not only pleaded guilty to the charges, but was also convicted by a court. Her actions were not a one-time occurrence, as the victim had previously been assaulted by her. This behavior is a clear violation of the standards of professional behavior, specifically discreditable conduct."
She went on to emphasize the importance of trust and confidence in the police force, stating, "The communities of Merseyside deserve to have faith in our officers and staff, knowing that they not only uphold the law, but also abide by it. Pulford Stone's disregard for the standards expected of her not only reflect poorly on the force, but also erode the trust of our communities."
Detective Superintendent Cheryl Rhodes, from Merseyside's Professional Standards Department, echoed this sentiment, saying, "It is crucial that our communities have trust and confidence in all of our officers and staff, knowing that they will both uphold and abide by the law. Our zero-tolerance approach to assault and criminal damage ensures that the actions of a few will not tarnish the reputation of the majority who work tirelessly to protect our communities."
Merseyside Police remains committed to maintaining high standards and holding its officers and staff accountable for their actions. Despite this unfortunate incident, the majority of their officers and staff continue to do an exemplary job, working day in and day out to ensure the safety and protection of all communities.
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