A panel has found a former Essex Police officer would have been dismissed if he had not already resigned after three allegations of gross misconduct were proven.

Former Police Constable Matthew Turner was alleged to have, between 2017 and 2019, sent malicious letters to a number of people whilst he was on duty. He was also alleged to have accessed a colleague's locker and stolen items of police equipment.

A hearing took place at Chelmsford Civic Centre on Monday 12 December and was chaired by independent Legally Qualified Chair Alexandra Robson.

The panel found three of four allegations to be proven, each of which amounted to gross misconduct. The allegation regarding theft from a colleague's locker was not proven.

The panel found breaches of the 'honesty and integrity' and 'discreditable conduct' standards of professional behaviour and declared that Former-PC Turner would have been dismissed had he not already resigned from his position within the Operational Policing Command. His details will be added to the College of Policing barred list.

 Deputy Chief Constable Andy Prophet said: "Former PC Turner's behaviour fell far well below the standards we expect of our officers.

"The panel concluded his behaviour was dishonest, undermined public trust and confidence and amounted to gross misconduct.

"The Force is committed to supporting our staff, officers and volunteers but where behaviour fall so far below the standards required, we act accordingly."