POLICE OFFICER CONVICTED OF STALKING WOULD HAVE BEEN SACKED IF HE HADN'T RETIRED
A police officer from Northumbria Police who acknowledged guilt in a stalking case is scheduled for an expedited misconduct hearing later this month, which could lead to his dismissal.PC Mark Blanchard admitted to the charge of stalking without causing fear, alarm, or distress at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court in February.
He received a sentence on March 5, 2025, consisting of a Community Order that mandates 80 hours of unpaid work.
The force has announced that PC Blanchard will face a misconduct panel on August 21, 2025, at their Middle Engine Lane headquarters in Wallsend.
The panel will determine if his conviction constitutes gross misconduct.
A finding of guilt could result in his removal from the police force.
