A former Metropolitan Police officer has been permanently barred from the policing profession after he photographed a dead body using his personal mobile phone. PC Timothy Robson, who was attached to the North East Area Command, took the image while attending a sudden death incident on September 10 last year.
The force confirmed that the picture was taken with no legitimate policing purpose. Robson subsequently showed or offered to show the photograph to several colleagues, prompting a misconduct hearing that found multiple allegations against him proven.
Misconduct Hearing Findings
The panel determined that PC Robson breached the standards of professional behaviour in relation to discreditable conduct, authority, respect and courtesy, and duties and responsibilities. As a result, he was dismissed from the force without notice.
Superintendent Jai Singh condemned the officer's actions, stating: "PC Robson has acted abhorrently and without any thought for the dignity of the individual and their loved ones. I would like to apologise to those affected by his actions and for any additional distress caused."
Singh also expressed gratitude to the colleagues who reported the behaviour, saying: "I am grateful to the colleagues who came forward to report this behaviour, enabling us to take decisive action against an officer whose conduct fell significantly short of the high standards we expect of all our officers and staff."
Barred from Policing
In addition to his dismissal, PC Robson has been added to the College of Policing barred list. This prevents him from rejoining the police or taking up roles with a number of other policing-related bodies in the future.
The incident highlights the importance of maintaining dignity and respect in all interactions with the public, especially in sensitive situations involving deceased individuals. The Metropolitan Police has reiterated its commitment to upholding professional standards and taking firm action against any officer who falls short.
