A police chief superintendent from Essex has been dismissed from his position following a serious investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct while on duty. Tom Simons, who held a senior role within the Essex police force, misused his authority for sexual gain, as established by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) on Friday. The investigation revealed that Simons engaged in inappropriate touching of a colleague and failed to disclose a personal relationship with one of the women involved.

The findings of the IOPC highlighted that Simons continued his inappropriate behavior even after receiving reminders about the critical importance of upholding professional boundaries in the workplace. This lapse in judgment raised significant concerns about his commitment to the ethical standards expected of police officers.

The Essex police department first brought the case to the attention of the IOPC in March 2022, spurred by multiple allegations against Simons, who was subsequently suspended from his duties pending the outcome of the investigation. The IOPC undertook a thorough inquiry, which included interviewing Simons under criminal caution, executing a search warrant at his residence, and examining his mobile phone as well as other devices for evidence.

In January 2024, the IOPC referred the case to the Crown Prosecution Service, recommending that they consider pressing criminal charges related to alleged sexual offenses, coercive control, and misconduct in public office. However, by June of the same year, the decision was made not to charge Simons with any criminal offenses, according to the IOPC's statements.

A misconduct panel, led by John Murphy, the assistant chief constable of Bedfordshire police, found that Simons had indeed committed gross misconduct, violating the police's professional standards of behavior. During the proceedings, Simons maintained his innocence regarding all allegations made against him.

As a result of the panel's findings, Simons was dismissed from the police force without notice and has been placed on the College of Policing barred list, effectively preventing him from serving in any future policing roles.

Emily Barry, director of the IOPC, commended the bravery of the women who reported Simons' misconduct, acknowledging that they faced immense pressure from him as a senior officer. She emphasized that their courage was pivotal in enabling the investigation to compile compelling evidence that ultimately led to his dismissal.

Barry stated, He has deservedly lost his job and its behavior like this that damages the publics trust and confidence in police officers.

In a strong statement, Ben-Julian Harrington, chief constable of Essex police, asserted, There is simply no place in policing for people who think, wrongly, that they can get away with sexual misconduct. Its super-clear in Essex; if you speak up, youll be listened to and there will be action to help you.

He further emphasized the police force's commitment to addressing such misconduct, stating, But if you try to get away with sexual misconduct or the kind of abhorrent behavior we have seen in this case, well catch you. Well investigate you and if allegations are proved then well do everything in our power to make sure you never work in policing again.