A FORMER Devon and Cornwall Police constable has been found culpable of gross misconduct following a disciplinary hearing which as.

A panel, led by independent legally-qualified chair Mr David Sapiecha, found that the actions of David Hoar had fallen below the expected standards of professional behaviour.

This was in respect of honesty and integrity; authority, respect and courtesy; and discreditable conduct.

The former constable faced allegations he had a consensual but inappropriate relationship with a woman, a victim of crime, he had first met in July 2018 through his policing duties.

Mr Hoar told the hearing that the relationship remained professional while he was the investigating officer in the case and became sexual after it had concluded in August 2018.

He admitted a number of allegations.

The panel found that ex-PC Hoar was in breach of professional standards in that he:

Conducted a sexual relationship with a vulnerable female victim of crime, having met her when he was appointed officer in the case;

Deleted evidence from his mobile phone prior to interview in August 2019;

Lied to the Professional Standards Department during an interview in August 2019 by denying a sexual relationship with the woman;

Purchased a mobile phone and used it to continue to contact the woman despite being instructed not to;

Met with the woman in August 2019 having been instructed not to;

Re-instigated contact with the woman between October and November 2021.

Following a one-day public hearing held in Exeter, the panel concluded that the former officer’s actions amounted to gross misconduct.

It was determined that, had Mr Hoar still been a serving officer, he would have been dismissed.

His details will be submitted to the College of Policing Barred List, preventing him from working within policing.

The full outcome notice can be found here.

Head of Professional Standards Detective Superintendent Paul Kessell said: ‘The actions of this former officer were clearly unacceptable.

‘We will always take the appropriate action when standards fall below those expected and continue to learn from any instances.

‘The overwhelming majority of our officers and staff work diligently to help to keep the public safe, uphold our high standards and provide an exceptional service to our communities.

‘Through his actions, the former officer undermined the public’s trust and confidence in the police force and did not fulfil his duties and responsibilities.

‘If anyone suspects a member of the force is abusing their position then please report your concerns to us.’

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Steve Parker added: ‘Devon and Cornwall Police takes any reports of inappropriate conduct extremely seriously.

‘All officers and staff are expected to abide by the Code of Ethics and ensure the highest standards of behaviour, both on and off duty.

‘We are committed to building trust and confidence which includes an unequivocal focus on allegations of police misconduct.

‘Any behaviour of this kind, especially when it involves a person who is vulnerable and has approached police for help and support, will not be tolerated.

‘We ensure that reports are investigated fully and quickly and will always take action when standards fall below those expected.’

Reports of concern can be reported to Devon and Cornwall Police by calling 101 or emailing [email protected]. Internally staff can also report their concerns confidentially via Bad Apple.

Alternatively, members of the public can contact the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) – details of which can be found via their website www.policeconduct.gov.uk or anonymously via the CrimeStoppers charity online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or freephone 0800 555 111.