Former Police Inspector Dies After Bridge Fall Following Misconduct Probe
A former police inspector who died after falling from a bridge over the M60 motorway has been identified as Jonathan Ezard, known as Jon, who resigned from Greater Manchester Police last year amid a misconduct investigation. The probe centered on allegations that he sent sexist and objectifying messages about a female colleague, which superiors described as misogynistic, degrading, and disrespectful.
Misconduct Allegations and Resignation
Mr. Ezard, who was an inspector with many years of service, left Greater Manchester Police before a scheduled misconduct hearing in September of last year. The hearing would have likely resulted in his dismissal had he not already stepped down. He is believed to have lodged an appeal against the findings, but no hearing was ever arranged.
The allegations involved Mr. Ezard sharing images of a young female officer from her social media account with a colleague from another force, accompanied by objectifying and demeaning messages. At the hearing, he accepted that his conduct was sexist, objectifying, inappropriate, and wrong, but denied it amounted to gross misconduct.
Family and Colleague Reactions
Mr. Ezard's family has expressed anger over the handling of his case, stating in a statement that the misconduct allegation was unfairly characterised, pursued, and decided upon, which devastated him. They also highlighted that his appeal was never given a date to be heard, adding to his distress.
Former colleagues have also criticized Greater Manchester Police bosses, with one officer saying Mr. Ezard fell foul of today's increasingly imbalanced misconduct and cut throat dismissal system. Another colleague defended him, insisting the messages were not misogynistic and praising his dedication as a police officer who received numerous awards and commendations.
Death and Aftermath
Mr. Ezard died on March 31 after falling from Barton Bridge over the M60 in Salford. The circumstances are not thought to be suspicious, and Bolton Coroners' Court has received a file in his name, with an inquest expected to open in due course.
Sources indicate that Mr. Ezard struggled after leaving the police force but seemed to be doing well after securing a job at Amazon. However, he was recently made redundant from the company. His death has left family and colleagues in shock, with many remembering his charitable work, including a Sahara trek that raised nearly £10,000 for fallen officers.
Police Response
Greater Manchester Police stated they are deeply saddened by Mr. Ezard's death and are offering support to his family and affected colleagues. The force's chief resources officer, Lee Rawlinson, noted that the misconduct findings involved gross misconduct due to the sharing of images and messages, though he acknowledged no evidence of hatred toward women.
Mr. Ezard's name has been added to the College of Policing's Barred List, preventing him from working in policing again. The Greater Manchester Police Federation is liaising with his family, expressing sadness over his passing.
In their statement, Mr. Ezard's family emphasized his dedication to serving the community and his role as a devoted husband, father, and friend. They hope he will be remembered for his positive contributions and the love he shared with those around him.
