Court supports police decision to dismiss officer who used racist language while off duty

Northumbria Police officer will not be returning to the force after using racist language on a night out in Newcastle last year.

Pc Katie Barratt, of Northumbria Police, who used racist language while on a night out in Newcastle will not be returning to the force.

The Pc was dismissed at a misconduct hearing last year after she used derogatory terms about the staff in a Newcastle takeaway while she was drunkenly waiting for a pizza.

On Friday December, 6 the judge who oversaw the case at the High Court in Leeds last month, ruled in favour of the Force, meaning that the officer’s dismissal stands and she will not be returning to Northumbria Police.

In the judgement, he wrote: “In my judgement, the only reasonable decision on the facts of this case was dismissal.”

He added the misconduct panel was correct to dismiss the officer, saying otherwise “would seriously undermine the trust and confidence the public have in the organisation and jeopardise the reputation of the Police Service.”

Northumbria Police Deputy Chief Constable Debbie Ford said: “I want to be absolutely clear that there is no room for racist language in our society – it is completely unacceptable.

“The language used by the officer that night was abhorrent and undermines the values of our organisation.

“This was recognised by a colleague who rightly came forward to report the matter, further reflecting the culture within the Force where people can have the confidence to speak up and challenge unacceptable behaviour.

“We were extremely disappointed by the Appeal Tribunal’s decision to reinstate the officer and it was important and right that we challenged this position and I therefore welcome the latest ruling.

“I want to take this opportunity to reassure the public that the actions of this individual are in no way representative of the unwavering professionalism and commitment shown by our officers and staff every single day.”

The force had been granted a court order to support its position that the Pc should not return to work during these latest proceedings or receive the back salary the tribunal directed be paid.