Panel finds ex-PC inadequate in handling assault complaint

A former police constable, who had received a final written warning months earlier, would have faced dismissal if he had not resigned after failing to properly handle an assault allegation. Daniel Burford, formerly stationed in Newbury, responded to a report at a Berkshire residence in September 2024, where a man claimed he had been assaulted.

Contrary to what he had been informed, Burford recorded in official logs that the complainant did not wish to pursue the matter further. An independent panel noted that Burford had already received a three-year final written warning in May 2024 for comparable misconduct.

The panel highlighted that the victim, belonging to a minority community, "never expressed a desire to avoid engagement with the police, nor indicated any reluctance to cooperate." The inquiry also emphasized that Burfords actions undermined public trust, particularly at a time when police relations with minority communities are under close examination, and therefore posed a significant risk to the forces reputation.

The complainant had contacted Thames Valley Police on three separate occasions before being informed in December 2024 that no further action would be taken due to "evidential difficulties."

Author: Caleb Jennings