Greater Manchester PC 'knowingly took advantage' of woman

The IOPC found Simon Rose asked colleagues to overlook any evidence found during a search of the woman's property

A PC who "took advantage" of a woman he "knew to be vulnerable" has been found guilty of misconduct in public office.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) found Simon Rose had an "inappropriate" relationship with the woman after she reported a crime to Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

As a result, the Crown Prosecution Service brought charges against the 47-year-old, of Parbold in Lancashire.

An IOPC spokeswoman said Rose's actions had "absolutely no place in policing".

Rose, of Burnside, was also convicted of attempting to pervert the course of justice after a trial at Liverpool Crown Court and will be sentenced on 4 April.

The IOPC said he first met the woman in 2012 after she reported a crime to GMP.

The force made a mandatory referral about his conduct in October 2019 after he was required to go to the woman's home in a professional capacity.

It said Rose admitted forming a professional and friendly relationship with her, but denied it was ever inappropriate.

However, an investigation found evidence the relationship was "ongoing" at the time of his visit to her home.

'Unacceptable'

The IOPC said Rose asked colleagues to avoid looking for evidence or to overlook any evidence they may find during a search of the woman's property.

Its investigation found he had a case to answer for gross misconduct for breaching the standards of professional behaviour in relation to honesty and integrity; authority, respect and courtesy; orders and instructions; and conduct.

Speaking after the hearing, IOPC regional director Amanda Rowe said Rose "took advantage of a woman he knew to be vulnerable and his actions have absolutely no place in policing".

"His subsequent efforts to cover up his behaviour show he knew what he had done was unacceptable," she said.

She said Rose would now face "disciplinary proceedings, which will be arranged by the force".

GMP Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods said: "It is imperative that police officers are held accountable for their actions.

"We treat allegations of misconduct with the utmost seriousness and, whilst this investigation has been led by the IOPC, we have supported investigators fully.

"I am deeply disappointed by this officer's conduct and, now the trial has concluded, misconduct proceedings will commence."

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