Police officer sacked following hearing

Thursday, 18 January 2024 00:00

A Wiltshire police officer has been dismissed without notice after a hearing found his behaviour amounted to gross misconduct.

The three day hearing, held at Wiltshire Police Headquarters, and chaired by an Independent Legally Qualified Chair, concluded that the actions of PC Frank Katus breached the Standards of Professional Behaviour for police officers of authority, respect and courtesy, equality and diversity and discreditable conduct.

In January and February 2023, PC Katus, who was a Roads Policing officer, sent unwanted, inappropriate and offensive messages to two police staff colleagues.

Deputy Chief Constable Craig Dibdin said: “PC Katus’ actions fell well below the high standards of professionalism that we, and the public, expect from all police officers, staff and volunteers.

“When details of his behaviour were reported to us, he was immediately suspended from his role and an investigation commenced.

“There is no place within our organisation for anyone who conducts themselves in this inappropriate manner and PC Katus will now be placed on the national barred list which means he will not be able to work in policing in the future.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the complainants who have supported the investigation – we encourage all members of our organisation to use an anonymous reporting tool if they have concerns regarding a colleagues behaviour to help ensure we have a positive, supportive and inclusive culture for the benefit of our colleagues, and ultimately our communities we serve.”

More from Local News

International GB Event Rider Opens Yard for Special Open Day

International event rider Kirsty Chabert is inviting the local community behind the scenes at her Team Opposition eventing yard in Landford, Wiltshire, for a special Yard Open Day on Wednesday 26 August, from 11 am–3 pm.
Mayor of Wilton Selects Salisbury Hospice Charity for Mayor's Appeal

Councillor Chris Harrison, Mayor of Wilton, has selected Salisbury Hospice’s “Sponsor a Nurse” campaign as his Mayor’s Appeal charity for this mayoral term.
Salisbury Searching for CCTV Volunteers

As part of Salisbury City Council’s CCTV monitoring service, a dedicated team of volunteer operators monitors the city’s state-of-the-art CCTV and radio system.
Residents Report Strong Smell of Smoke Over Salisbury

Residents in and around Salisbury are reporting a strong smell of smoke this morning (14th August).
PCC calls for balanced approach to police reform

Wiltshire's Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson has called for a measured and evidence-led approach to police reform, stressing that any changes must strengthen policing's ability to serve communities, protect the vulnerable and maintain public confidence.
The Hills - and Cathedral - are Alive with The Sound of Music

Audiences will have an opportunity to enjoy Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic film musical The Sound of Music on the big screen in Salisbury Cathedral on Saturday 5 September.
Pride and Prejudice *Sort Of Cast Announced for Tour Coming to Salisbury Playhouse

Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) by Isobel McArthur, after Jane Austen, has proved to be one of the most successful touring productions ever and is returning yet again, including a run at Salisbury Playhouse.
Wiltshire police rider claims multiple titles at PSUK Southern Championships

A Wiltshire Police staff member has celebrated a highly successful day at the Police Sport UK (PSUK) Southern Championships Blue Lights Horse Show, taking home multiple titles while proudly representing the Force.