In June, a Sussex Police officer was convicted of actual bodily harm following a brutal assault committed while off-duty in Eastbourne, East Sussex. Despite the fact that he was not working, Robert Rangeley was condemned for his acts. He was even described as “a disgrace on the police service”.
Rangeley received a suspended eight-month prison sentence and was ordered to pay £1500 in compensation, £1750 in court costs and to carry out 170 hours of unpaid work. Regardless of this sentencing, Rangeley’s actions still damaged the trust the public has in those meant to protect them.
Sussex Police have ensured that they do not let Rangeley off the hook. The 35-year-old was dismissed from the force at a hearing which he did not attend. It was found that he had undermined the position and respect of the police, and was in serious breach of the codes of conduct.
Detective Superintendent Steve Boniface spoke of Sussex Police’s determination to always act accordingly with their professional standards: “Sussex Police expects the highest personal and professional standards of anyone who works for us and any allegations of behaviour that do not meet those standards are rigorously investigated.”
Boniface also made clear the want for impartiality:
“It is important to show that the force has the ability to fairly investigate its own staff and this highlights our determination not to allow the name of Sussex Police to be tainted.”
He also highlighted “the enormous amount of good work carried out day-to-day by thousands of hard-working and enormously dedicated police officers and staff.”
