Serving police officer dismissed without notice

A serving police officer has been dismissed without notice after being convicted of a driving offence.

DC Gareth Morris, 42, pleaded guilty at Cannock Magistrates’ Court last month to driving a motor vehicle when his alcohol level was above the limit following a single-vehicle collision in Hilderstone, near Stone, in August 2021. He was banned from driving for 13 months, which will be reduced by 13 weeks on completion of a driving awareness course. He was fined £507 in addition to associated costs. 
 
The hearing, which was held on Friday (4 March) found that he had breached discreditable conduct standards.
 
Deputy Chief Constable Emma Barnett, said: “We demand and expect high standards from our police officers at all times. They must be held to account for their actions in order to maintain the public’s trust and confidence in policing and the integrity of the service.

“It is clear this officer has fallen below the standard expected and the circumstances warranted dismissal without notice.”