Eight Officers Suspended Following Off-Duty Allegations
Eight serving officers from Durham Constabulary have been suspended from duty following reports of alleged misbehaviour while on a personal holiday in Spain. The force confirmed that a sergeant, six police constables, and a special constable, all based at Chester-le-Street police station, were suspended in October 2025.
The suspensions are pending the outcome of a formal investigation by the force's Professional Standards Department. The probe centres on allegations that the officers failed to uphold the required standards of professional behaviour while they were off-duty.
Details of the Investigation
According to reports, the investigation relates specifically to the group's conduct during a trip abroad, which was a private holiday and not a work-related visit. In addition to the incidents in Spain, the inquiry is also examining matters connected to an inappropriate tattoo.
A spokesperson for Durham Police stated: 'Eight Durham Constabulary officers have been suspended pending an investigation into allegations that they failed to uphold standards of professional behaviour.' The spokesperson emphasised that the investigation is ongoing and all eight individuals remain under suspension.
Potential Consequences for the Officers
The allegations are being treated with the utmost seriousness. If proven, the officers involved could face the most severe disciplinary outcomes. All eight face the possibility of being banned from policing or losing their jobs entirely.
The case highlights the expectation that police officers must maintain high standards of conduct at all times, whether on or off duty. The force's Professional Standards Department is leading the ongoing probe to establish the full facts of the matter.
