RETIRED BEDFORDSHIRE POLICE OFFICER USED RANK TO PRESSURE WOMEN ON DATING APPS DESPITE BEING BLOCKED
A former Bedfordshire Police detective who pursued women online despite being repeatedly asked to stop would have been dismissed for gross misconduct had he not retired before his disciplinary hearing.
Detective inspector Andy Southam faced allegations relating to his conduct towards nine women he met on dating sites, including making inappropriate comments and continuing contact after being blocked on social media.
He admitted discreditable conduct relating to seven of the women, describing himself as a 'high-ranking' officer to pressure them.
The panel found his actions amounted to gross misconduct, with behaviour deemed unwelcome, inappropriate, and sometimes intimidating, eroding trust in policing.
Southam's last-minute retirement placed additional pressure on both the complainants and the public purse.
Despite retiring immediately before the hearing, he is now placed on the College of Policing Barred List.
