A police chief has admitted there is “still much work to do” after statistics revealed scores of officers were investigated for sexual offences.
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said the force would be doing “extensive revetting” and further training to officers.
The comments come in reaction to a Freedom of Information request which revealed nearly 100 Sussex Police officers were investigated for allegations of domestic abuse and sexual offences over a five-year period.
Katy Bourne said: “We know there is still much work to do to rebuild public confidence and trust in our police.
“From extensive revetting and additional training for officers and staff, to comprehensive programmes of structural change and internal anonymous reporting tools, I am confident that Sussex Police are driving forward improvements that will ensure all their officers are fit to wear the uniform.
“There is no limit to the measures the Chief Constable and I will put in place to root out any toxic and damaging behaviours.
“This conduct can never be tolerated not just because of the negative impacts on public trust in policing but also because it overshadows the excellent work of the majority of officers and staff who work hard to keep us safe.”
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Statistics found that 95 officers had been investigated for domestic abuse and sexual offences between 2017 and 2022.
Over half of the allegations reported were made in 2021 and 2022 in the wake of the rape and murder of Sarah Everard by serving Met Police officer Wayne Couzens.
The Argus submitted an FOI to Sussex Police, with public bodies required to hand over the information or reject the request in 20 working days.
After complaints to the Information Commissioner’s Office, the information was eventually handed over 52 days after the request.
Responding to the figures, professional standards boss Detective Chief Inspector Jon Robeson said the rising figures were “a positive thing” which highlights changes to the force’s culture.
Sussex Police say they are trying to create a “call-it-out culture” with a new sexual harassment policy and monthly scrutiny panels.
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