Police watchdog began five investigations into Essex Police this summer

Nick Alston, Essex Police and Crime Commissioner, has published the latest quarterly report into complaints and disciplinary matters involving the force.

It is part of his drive to open up the force and be more transparent.

It reveals that between July 1 and September 30 the IPCC began five cases into shortcomings, while a further two officers are being investigating internally. One is for making false entries into a domestic abuse report, while the second is alleged to have had inappropriate contact with vulnerable women.

The report also shows that at the time of writing five officers were suspended pending investigations or court cases.

Mr Alston said: “I am very conscious that during a period of considerable financial pressure the vast majority of Essex Police officers and staff continue to go the extra mile to prevent harm, support victims and bring dangerous criminals to justice. Excellent work takes place every day, often out of public sight.

“However for too long forces up and down the country have not always been completely forthcoming when things go wrong or where serious misconduct has occurred. I believe being open and transparent about these matters will enable our police forces to maintain the full support of the public which, overwhelmingly, Essex Police deserves.

“Some of the matters being investigated both under the supervision of the IPCC and by the Essex Police Professional Standards Department are of deep concern. However I remain assured that they are thoroughly investigated.”

The report also includes an update on previously reported cases, and shows that three officers have since resigned and been added to the national disapproved register to prevent them joining other forces.

These include two officers for data breaches or inappropriately accessing police information, and another who made racist and sexist remarks both while on and off duty.