Devon and Cornwall police officers cleared over ‘fake activity’

Katie Clements, chair of Devon and Cornwall Police Federation, said the accusations had “taken a heavy toll”.

She said the accused officers faced “months of mental health anguish over being accused of lying – one of the worst things a police officer can be accused of”.

She noted only three of the officers remain in policing, while eight have left the job, calling it a “devastating loss of capability and experience”.

“There was never any merit to this probe,” Clements added.

“The force failed to acknowledge the evidence that was placed in front of them throughout the process.

“Oversight of officers must be fair. This was not the case here.

“There is now a sense of fear amongst colleagues in Devon and Cornwall Police. Who could be next?”

Deputy Chief Constable Jim Colwell said Devon & Cornwall Police was committed to ensuring allegations of misconduct are assessed “fairly and investigated thoroughly with transparency throughout”.

He said he was “acutely aware of the strain investigations place on officers involved” but said it was right to investigate allegations “robustly” while ensuring appropriate support is in place.

Colwell added: “We will continue to engage with the Police Federation and others to ensure appropriate measures are in place for all those impacted by this case.”

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