A Metropolitan Police officer has been dismissed from the force after engaging in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a vulnerable woman he initially met as a crime victim.
PC James Doyle, attached to the Central West Command Unit, faced a misconduct hearing where he was found to have committed gross misconduct for his actions between May and August 2023.
Abuse of Position and Trust
The hearing revealed that Doyle first encountered the woman during a welfare check in May 2023. Despite knowing she was vulnerable and involved in ongoing police investigations, the officer proceeded to initiate personal contact.
Detective Chief Superintendent Andy Carter, who leads the Central West Command Unit, condemned Doyle's actions, stating they fell "well below the standards we expect from our officers."
Pattern of Unprofessional Conduct
The tribunal heard how Doyle:
- Established inappropriate communication with the vulnerable woman
- Failed to maintain professional boundaries
- Engaged in a sexual relationship while aware of her vulnerable status
- Completely disregarded police ethics and professional standards
Doyle had joined the Met in February 2020 and was still within his probationary period when the incidents occurred.
Zero Tolerance for Exploitation
DCS Carter emphasized the seriousness of the breach, noting: "It is never acceptable for a police officer to form a relationship of this nature with any member of the public, but it is particularly egregious when they are in a position of vulnerability."
The case represents another blow to public confidence in the Metropolitan Police, which has faced multiple scandals involving officer conduct in recent years.
Doyle was dismissed without notice following the hearing on February 7, 2024, and has been placed on the barred list, preventing him from future employment in policing.
