Panorama 'truly shocking' says chief constable

Chief Constable James Vaughan said he has a "zero tolerance" approach to toxic behaviour

The chief constable of Devon and Cornwall Police has described an undercover TV report unveiling racism and misogyny in a different force as "truly shocking".

James Vaughan was reacting to Wednesday's BBC Panorama programme, in which secret filming showed Metropolitan Police officers calling for immigrants to be shot, glorifying the use of force and being dismissive of rape claims.

Eight officers and one staff member have been suspended, and two more taken off front-line duties, since the list of allegations was sent to the Met.

Vaughan said he had a "zero tolerance" approach and will "personally dismiss" any officers or staff who exhibit such behaviour in the South West.

He said: "The vast majority in policing are good people trying to protect the public, but it would be complacent and foolish to say we don't have similar subcultures here.

"Some who join the job do harbour vile and reprehensible views, which can be difficult to detect despite us having worked harder in recent years to improve the vetting process."

He added: "I meet every single new recruit who comes into this organisation and give them very clear direction as to what's expected of them and their behaviour.

"I also tell them they should feel safe doing their work and confident that they can call out anything of concern.

"We take a zero tolerance approach and I have and will personally dismiss anyone who abuses their powers."

"Something this negative has a damaging effect throughout the entire force," said Ch Supt Scott Bradley

Cornwall's recently appointed police commander, Ch Supt Scott Bradley, also described the episode of Panorama as "painful to watch".

He worried the disturbing footage would "impact our officers on the street".

"I have no doubt they'll be on the receiving end from members of the public based on what was shown on TV," said Bradley, who oversees Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

He added that he implored the regions' communities to "continue putting trust in us".