Hampshire police officers fired for over 800 racist, sexist, misogynistic and homophobic messages.

PC Michael Spake and PC Adam Holloway were dismissed today (June 25) after a hearing at Hampshire Police Operational Headquarters, Mottisfont Court, in Winchester. The two had been caught sending 856 racist, sexist, misogynistic and homophobic messages to each between July 11 and August 28, 2023.

Messages were also discovered that referenced to plagiarism of their student dissertations and being derogatory about their line managers and colleagues. The police constables have now been dismissed without notice following an accelerated misconduct hearing and have been placed on the College of Policing barred list for five years.

Chief Constable Scott Chilton, who was the chair of the hearing, said: "The messages shared by PC Spake and PC Holloway are among the most abhorrent I have ever seen, and I was incensed when they were presented to me as part of this hearing.

“The way these officers discussed treating members of the public and colleagues defies belief and they now deservedly hold the shame of being dismissed from policing due to their own disgusting language and beliefs. As soon as these messages were identified, we have taken the necessary steps to remove both officers from the Constabulary at the earliest opportunity.

"However, I want to be clear, today's decision does not limit further courses of action for us. I expect a full and thorough investigation into any further matters, including an criminal conduct. Social media and messaging apps cannot be a place for officers with opinions like the ones we have heard today to hide.

"These officers do not reflect members of this force, who routinely, day in and day out, do all they can to show kindness, compassion and professionalism in keeping our communities safe.

"I know that the officers and staff of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary will not just feel let down by PC Spake and PC Holloway, many will feel angry and upset on hearing the detail of the beliefs and views that these officers held, and will all want to join me in rooting out anyone who acts in this manner."

Further detail's on the misconduct hearing can be found here.