A FORMER Avon and Somerset PC who failed to treat a domestic abuse victim fairly has been barred from policing

Mark Stickley was found guilty of gross misconduct by a panel.

The panel ruled that he had used "inappropriate, unprofessional, disrespectful and discourteous language" when attending an incident in October 2018.

Stickley would have been dismissed by the force had he not already resigned.

The panel found all allegations against Mr Stickley proven, in breach of the standards of professional behaviour expected of him.

He failed to show compassion or to treat a domestic abuse victim fairly, made an inaccurate recording of the incident and engaged in behaviour that would bring the police service into disrepute.

Superintendent Deryck Rees, the force’s lead on domestic abuse, said: “I first of all want to apologise to the victim in this case.

"We as a force pride ourselves on doing our upmost to protect victims of all crime and we set a high standard for all our officers to make sure they protect the public.

"On this occasion Mr Stickley fell significantly short of meeting that standard.

“Mr Stickley’s actions on that day are not representative of our force and I welcome today’s judgement.

"It was important to hold a hearing into the very serious allegations against Mr Stickley to ensure that, if proven, he would be placed on the Barred List.

“I hope the action we have taken today provides reassurance how seriously we as a force take matters of domestic abuse and that we will not accept any failings by officers who do not prioritise public safety.

“We take all reports of domestic abuse extremely seriously and at this difficult time we are working closely with safeguarding teams and local domestic abuse support organisations to make sure that victims will continue to receive the help and support they need to keep them safe.

“We would urge anyone concerned about domestic abuse to report to us either via our website or call 101. If you or anyone you know is in immediate danger always call 999.”

More advice and contact details for local and national helplines and support organisations are available at www.thisisnotanexcuse.org