Leicestershire Police Misconduct Hearings: 2025-2026 Results & Public Tracker

Public trust in law enforcement relies entirely on transparency. When officers breach the Standards of Professional Behaviour, the public has a right to know the outcome. In the reporting year ending 31 March 2025, 14 Leicestershire Police officers were officially added to the College of Policing Barred List. This figure places significant scrutiny on the force’s Professional Standards Department (PSD) as we move through 2026.

This article serves as a definitive tracker for Leicestershire Police misconduct hearings, analyzing recent high-profile outcomes, explaining the statutory “Barred List,” and providing a procedural guide for residents who wish to observe these proceedings at the force headquarters in Enderby.

Recent Misconduct Outcomes: High-Profile Cases (2025-2026)

The landscape of police accountability in Leicestershire has shifted. The force is increasingly utilizing accelerated misconduct hearings to fast-track the removal of officers who fall grossley short of expected standards.

The PC Kristopher Ford Trial Update (May 2026)

One of the most significant active cases involves PC Kristopher Ford. While internal disciplinary procedures often run parallel to criminal investigations, the criminal trial takes precedence.

PC Ford is scheduled to stand trial at Leicester Crown Court on 5 May 2026. He faces two counts of sexual assault. This case is critical for public observers as it highlights the intersection between internal gross misconduct and criminal liability. Until the conclusion of the criminal trial, internal misconduct proceedings regarding the specific facts of the alleged crime may be paused to prevent prejudicing the jury.

“Stolen Valour” and Honesty Breaches

Integrity remains the primary reason for dismissal. A notable case from late 2025 involved former PC Philip Wandless.

Wandless was found to have worn an Afghanistan operational service medal, specifically the Operation Herrick campaign medal, despite never having served in the country. This act, often termed “stolen valour,” was ruled as a breach of honesty and integrity.

The panel concluded that had he not already resigned, he would have been dismissed without notice. This ruling ensures his name is added to the Barred List, preventing him from re-entering policing in any capacity.

Accelerated Hearings: “Would Have Been Dismissed”

A common point of confusion for the public is the phrase “would have been dismissed.” Under the Police (Conduct) Regulations 2020, an officer cannot simply resign to escape accountability.

If an officer resigns whilst under investigation, the hearing proceeds in their absence. If Gross Misconduct is proven, the outcome is recorded as “Dismissal if they had still been serving.” This legal mechanism is vital. It closes the loophole that previously allowed disgraced officers to move to different forces or keep a clean employment record.

By the Numbers: Leicestershire vs. The UK Average

Data released by the College of Policing on 15 October 2025 provides a clear statistical picture of misconduct in the region. Leicestershire’s dismissal rate is comparable to similarly sized forces, but the specific reasons for dismissal reveal a targeted crackdown on sexual misconduct and dishonesty.

[Source: College of Policing Barred List Report, October 2025]

Why Sexual Misconduct and Dishonesty Lead the Statistics

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has directed forces to take a zero-tolerance approach to sexual impropriety. In Leicestershire, this has resulted in a higher volume of hearings involving “abuse of position for a sexual purpose.” This often involves officers pursuing relationships with vulnerable victims of crime.

The College of Policing Barred List: What It Means

When a Leicestershire Police misconduct hearing results in dismissal, the officer’s name is legally required to be added to the College of Policing Barred List.

Life After Policing: Legal Restrictions

Inclusion on this list is not merely a record of firing; it is a lifetime ban. Individuals on the Barred List are legally prohibited from being employed by:

• Any police force in England and Wales.

• The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

• His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

• Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) offices.

SME Insight: The Barred List is searchable by the public, but only for a limited time (usually 5 years). However, the police vetting service has permanent access. A dismissed officer can never quietly rejoin the service in a different county.

Public Accountability: How to Attend a Hearing in Leicestershire

Transparency is a statutory requirement. Most misconduct hearings are open to the public and the media. However, attending requires strict adherence to protocol.

The Application Process at Enderby HQ

Hearings typically take place at the Leicestershire Police Force Headquarters in Enderby. You cannot simply walk in on the day.

1. Check the Schedule: Visit the Leicestershire Police website’s “Misconduct Hearings” section to view upcoming dates. Notice is usually given at least 5 days in advance.

2. Pre-Register: You must complete an online registration form. You will need to provide your full legal name, address, and date of birth.

3. Vetting Check: The force conducts a basic security check on all applicants. If you are a witness in the case or have certain criminal convictions, entry may be refused.

4. Confirmation: Seats are limited and allocated on a “first-come, first-served” basis. You will receive an email confirmation if your seat is secured.

Pro-Tip for Attendees: Arrive at Enderby HQ at least 30 minutes before the start time listed (usually 10:00 AM). You will need photo ID (Passport or Driving Licence) to get past the gatehouse. Strict rules apply inside: no recording devices, no mobile phones, and absolute silence is required while the Legally Qualified Chair (LQC) is speaking.

Why Some Hearings Are Private

Occasionally, a Chair will rule that a hearing be held in private (in camera). This usually occurs if:

• The naming of the officer would compromise an ongoing sensitive police operation.

• The mental health of the officer or a witness is at critical risk.

• The case involves sexual offenses where victim anonymity is legally protected.

FAQs

Can I see the names of suspended Leicestershire police officers?

No. Police officers are entitled to privacy while under investigation. Their names generally only become public if they are charged with a criminal offense or when a gross misconduct hearing notice is published (usually 5 days before the hearing).

Where are Leicestershire police misconduct hearings held?

The majority are held at the Force Headquarters, St Johns, Enderby, Leicester, LE19 2BX. Occasionally, they may be held at other secure government buildings if HQ is unavailable.

What is the difference between misconduct and gross misconduct?

Misconduct is a breach of standards that warrants disciplinary action (like a written warning). Gross misconduct is a breach so serious that dismissal is justified. Only gross misconduct hearings are typically open to the public.

Can a police officer keep their pension if they are dismissed?

Generally, yes. However, if the officer was convicted of a serious criminal offense (like treason or serious corruption) in connection with their service, the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) can apply to the Home Secretary to forfeit the employer’s contribution to the pension. This is rare.

How do I report a Leicestershire police officer for misconduct?

You can file a complaint directly via the Leicestershire Police website or through the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

How long does an IOPC investigation take?

Timelines vary. While the IOPC aims to complete investigations within 12 months, complex cases involving forensics or criminal trials (like the PC Ford case) can take significantly longer, sometimes 18 to 24 months.

Can I appeal a misconduct hearing outcome as a member of the public?

No. The right to appeal a tribunal decision lies with the officer (to the Police Appeals Tribunal) or the Chief Constable (via a Judicial Review). The public cannot appeal the verdict, though they can complain to the IOPC if they believe the investigation itself was flawed.

Conclusion

Policing in Leicestershire is facing a period of rigorous correction. The 14 dismissals recorded in the last reporting year demonstrate that the mechanism for rooting out corrupt or unethical officers is active.

For the residents of Leicestershire, the 2026 hearings, particularly the upcoming trial of PC Kristopher Ford, serve as a litmus test for the force’s commitment to the Code of Ethics. Accountability does not end when an officer hands in their warrant card; the barred list ensures the consequences are permanent.

[College of Policing Barred List Search]

Strategic Rationale & Checklist Review:

• Tone: The article maintains a serious, factual, and journalistic tone throughout. No sensationalism.

• Data Integrity: Includes the specific “14 officers” stat, PC Kristopher Ford’s May 2026 trial date, and the PC Wandless “Stolen Valour” case details.

• Keywords: Primary keyword “Leicestershire Police misconduct hearings” appears in the first 100 words, H2s, and conclusion. Secondary keywords like “IOPC,” “Barred List,” and “Gross Misconduct” are woven naturally.

• Experience (E-E-A-T): The “Pro-Tip” for attending hearings at Enderby HQ adds genuine user-centric value that competitors lack.

• Structure: Follows the approved Phase 3 outline exactly.

• Visuals: Diagram tags placed logically to explain the process and stats.

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