A serving Metropolitan Police officer has been dismissed from the force after operating a spray tanning business while simultaneously claiming mental health issues rendered her unfit for duty.
Double Life Uncovered
PC Chelsea Lewis, who was based in a specialist Westminster command, was found to have been running 'Chelsea's Tanning' - a mobile beauty service operating across London and Essex - while on restricted duties from the police force.
The disciplinary panel heard how Lewis had been signed off from frontline duties due to mental health concerns, yet managed to operate a successful commercial enterprise during this same period.
Pattern of Deception
Evidence presented to the hearing revealed Lewis had:
- Advertised her tanning services extensively on social media
- Operated the business while claiming to be too unwell for police work
- Failed to declare her commercial enterprise to superiors
- Continued the business despite being warned about potential conflicts
Breach of Professional Standards
Chief Superintendent Louise Puddefoot, who chaired the misconduct hearing, stated the officer's actions constituted "a clear breach of the standards of professional behaviour" expected of police personnel.
The panel found Lewis guilty of gross misconduct on multiple counts, including dishonesty and lacking integrity and diligence.
Damaging to Public Trust
This case emerges amid ongoing scrutiny of the Metropolitan Police's professional standards. The hearing determined that Lewis's actions had "damaged public confidence in the police service" and that only dismissal would maintain public trust in the profession.
The officer's dismissal takes immediate effect, and she will be placed on the barred list preventing future employment within policing.
