PCC statement on former officer Connolly

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Merseyside's Police Commissioner has today released a statement following the formal dismissal of former police officer Ryan Connolly following a gross misconduct hearing.

Emily Spurrell said: “The way Connolly behaved is wholly unacceptable.

“There can be no excuse for what he did and local people will be disgusted and appalled by his actions.

“It is only right that he will never be able to work as a police officer again and will be sentenced for his crimes in January.

"Police conduct is an issue I am committed to closely monitoring and I raised it with the Chief Constable at my recent public scrutiny meeting.

“It is clear she is committed to embedding the right culture across Merseyside Police and anyone that falls below those high standards will be challenged and swift and robust action will be taken by the force’s anti-corruption team, as we have seen in Connolly’s case.

“I am reassured that the force has introduced enhanced vetting, as well as a confidential reporting app that enables officer and staff to report any concerns about colleagues anonymously.

“There is no place for any officer or member of staff who behaves inappropriately in our police service. Their actions shake public confidence in the police and undermine the efforts of the overwhelming majority of professional, hard-working employees who are committed to serving and protecting the public of Merseyside.

“I will continue to review the work the Chief Constable is doing to root out wrongdoing and ensure everyone within the organisation is adhering to the high standards she expects, and the public of Merseyside deserve.”