Six serving and three former Gwent Police officers are under investigation for allegedly sharing offensive messages, including racist images and pornographic videos. The probe by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) was triggered after such content was discovered on the phone of retired officer Ricky Jones, who died by suicide in 2020.
Mr Jones's daughter, speaking under a pseudonym, expressed dismay that action was only taken after press involvement. She criticised the force's handling, stating it shows why victims of police domestic abuse may be reluctant to report their abusers. The IOPC confirmed that three serving and two former officers have received misconduct notices, while four others are investigated for failing to challenge the messages. Two additional officers face criminal inquiries for alleged unauthorised disclosure of police information.
IOPC director David Ford noted that officers from constable to inspector ranks are involved, and the watchdog is also examining when Gwent Police became aware of the family's concerns. He emphasised the investigation will be thorough but time-consuming due to the number of officers and the non-recent nature of the conduct. A separate Wiltshire Police inquiry is examining complaints about Gwent Police's investigation into Mr Jones's death.
Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Williams stated the force is committed to rooting out inappropriate behaviour and hopes the investigation's scale will build public confidence. Gwent Police reiterated that such conduct has no place in the force.
