In a recent Gross Misconduct Hearing, allegations of discreditable conduct and a failure in duties were upheld against two Wiltshire Police officers, Inspector David Tippetts and PC Emma Fisher.
The hearing, led by an independent Legally Qualified Chair (LQC), scrutinised the officers’ handling of a 2016 report involving then-serving Metropolitan Police officer David Carrick.
The LQC concluded that PC Fisher had significantly failed in her responsibilities, upholding 11 allegations against her. These included not adequately investigating the abuse allegation, neglecting her duties, failing to maintain accurate records, and lacking diligence. One allegation was withdrawn, and three were not proven.
Inspector Tippetts faced five upheld allegations, primarily focusing on his failure to verify PC Fisher’s actions, instruct her appropriately, and recognise her lack of investigation. His oversight shortcomings were found to contribute to the misconduct.
Together, these breaches led the panel to determine that the actions of both officers amounted to gross misconduct, resulting in final written warnings for both.
This hearing is part of a broader investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) into how police handled reports concerning David Carrick. Deputy Chief Constable Craig Dibdin commented on the findings, emphasising the critical failures in basic investigative duties and the compounded effect of inadequate supervisory oversight.
DCC Dibdin stated, “This is a clear case of officers failing, in the most basic sense, to properly investigate allegations made to them. This failure in service was compounded by a lack of proper oversight and scrutiny by a supervisor. Whilst it would be inappropriate to comment on the ongoing IOPC investigation, clearly the public will have questions as to the impact this inaction might have had on Carrick’s vile offending after 2016.”
He further apologised unreservedly to the individual whose report was not properly investigated and assured the community of the Force’s commitment to learning from this case to enhance service standards. DCC Dibdin also encouraged the public to report any concerns regarding police conduct, highlighting the introduction of the Safe2Say Anonymous Reporting System for internal reporting of any wrongdoing within the Force.
The revelations from this hearing underline the necessity for thorough investigative practices and diligent oversight within the police force, aiming to restore public trust and confidence in their ability to serve and protect.
