Two Met firearms officers have been hit with final written warnings after falsifying their training records
(Picture: PA)Two Metropolitan Police firearms officers have been handed final written warnings after falsifying their training records.
Sergeant Hayley Russell and PC Chris Strickland, both attached to the Specialist Firearms Command, breached the Standards of Professional Behaviour in relation to honesty and integrity and discreditable conduct, a misconduct hearing heard.
In November 2019, both officers falsified records to show that they had updated their training as required for officers carrying guns.
The independent chairperson of the hearing found that the falsification of documents amounted to gross misconduct and they were given final written warnings.
Commander Kyle Gordon said on Monday: “We require all of our firearms officers to train regularly and refresh their skills in order to remain competent to carry firearms operationally to keep the people of London safe. This training includes regular mandatory ‘reclassification’ shoots.
“One officer failed to undertake some elements of their reclassification, and both falsified documents suggesting it had been completed.
“Whilst their ongoing level of training meant that they were still qualified to carry a firearm and the public safety was not at risk, nevertheless we expect exemplary standards from our officers. This behaviour is clearly a breach of our key values of honesty and integrity which has been reflected in the sanction issued.”
