British Police Officer Dismissed for Homophobic and Transphobic Messages
British Police Officer Dismissed for Homophobic and Transphobic Messages
Messages Sent to "Fit In"
British police officer PC Gareth Horton admitted to sending homophobic, transphobic, and racist messages in an attempt to "fit in." These exchanges, which took place via WhatsApp in 2023 with a colleague from Merseyside Police, were exposed by the BBC.
Revelatory Messages
During a disciplinary tribunal, it was revealed that Horton had responded to inappropriate messages with "crying-laughing emojis" and had also sent homophobic and violent messages himself. Among these were insults directed at TV presenter Phillip Schofield, as well as offensive remarks about a transphobic advertisement.
The investigation uncovered these messages as part of a probe into another officer.
Public Expected to Be "Rightfully Horrified"
Police lawyer Katherine Hampshire emphasized that if these messages became public, people would be "rightfully horrified."
"Deeply Sorry"
At the hearing, Horton expressed his regrets, stating that he was merely trying to "fit in" after joining Merseyside Police in 2020.
"I was still trying to integrate and make friends," he explained, adding that his actions were driven by "ignorance and stupidity."
"This behavior in no way reflects my true personality," he assured.
"Honest and Transparent" Attitude, According to His Defense
Horton's lawyer, Susan Ferrier, defended him, arguing that her client was "completely honest and transparent."
"He knows he acted wrongly, but he has done everything in his power to rectify the situation," she added, suggesting that a final written warning would be a more appropriate sanction.
Immediate Dismissal
However, the disciplinary hearing chairman, Ian Arundale, ruled that the severity of the case warranted immediate dismissal.
He emphasized that Horton's messages demonstrated a "high level of culpability" and showed a "pattern of behavior" targeting groups protected under the Equality Act.
Horton left the hearing alongside his wife following the announcement of the decision. His name will now be added to the list of individuals banned from serving in the police force.
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