A Metropolitan Police officer has been dismissed from the force following a disciplinary hearing that concluded he engaged in sexually inappropriate behaviour towards two female colleagues while on duty.
Gross Misconduct Finding Leads to Immediate Dismissal
PC Calum O'Loughnane, who served with the Central North Command Unit, was found to have breached police standards of professional behaviour relating to discreditable conduct. The hearing, which concluded on Friday, January 23, determined that his actions amounted to gross misconduct serious enough to justify immediate dismissal from the Metropolitan Police Service.
The specific allegations involved PC O'Loughnane placing his hands on the legs of female colleagues during operational duties. The disciplinary panel heard evidence that this behaviour created an uncomfortable and inappropriate working environment for the officers involved.
Senior Officer Condemns Behaviour
Chief Superintendent Jason Stewart, who leads policing in the Central North area, issued a strong statement following the dismissal. "The behaviour of PC O'Loughnane fell well short of that expected of a serving officer," he stated.
"Women deserve to feel safe working at the Met, and there is no place for sexual misconduct in policing. We are working hard to make sure anyone who does not reach these standards is removed from the force."
Barred from Future Police Employment
In addition to his dismissal, PC O'Loughnane will be placed on the barred list maintained by the College of Policing. This significant consequence means he cannot be employed by:
- Any police force in the United Kingdom
- Local policing bodies
- The Independent Office for Police Conduct
- His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services
The barred list serves as a permanent record preventing individuals dismissed for gross misconduct from returning to policing roles, ensuring that standards of professional behaviour are maintained across law enforcement agencies.
Ongoing Efforts to Improve Standards
This case comes amid ongoing efforts within the Metropolitan Police to address concerns about workplace culture and professional standards. The force has faced increased scrutiny in recent years regarding its handling of misconduct cases and efforts to create a safer working environment for all officers and staff.
The dismissal represents a clear demonstration of the Metropolitan Police's stated commitment to removing officers who fail to meet expected standards of professional behaviour, particularly regarding conduct towards colleagues.
