PC sacked over messages to female suspect

PC Peter May has been dismissed without notice

A Sussex Police constable has been sacked after trying to pursue a sexual relationship with a woman being investigated for drink and drug driving.

PC Peter May messaged the woman via WhatsApp to ask if she wanted to stay at his house or to go for a drink together, Sussex Police said.

A two-day misconduct hearing found the police constable's behaviour amounted to gross misconduct and he was dismissed without notice.

Det Ch Insp Sarah Gillies called it an "unacceptable betrayal of trust" and an abuse of a position of responsibility.

Sussex Police said Mr May was motivated by "a desire to pursue a sexual and improper relationship" with the woman.

He was found to have breached the standards of professional behaviour, namely lack of integrity.

Det Ch Insp Gillies said: "This was an unacceptable betrayal of the trust placed in this officer by a member of the public.

"PC May abused his position of responsibility and has rightly faced the consequences of his actions.

"We will continue to work hard to improve the standards of policing in Sussex to ensure the public receive the service they deserve."