A FORMER Wiltshire police detective sergeant made inappropriate sexualised comments and behaviour to junior female colleagues while at work.

A public hearing chaired by an independent and legally qualified chair concluded yesterday that six allegations of gross misconduct against Glenn Atkinson have been proven.

He did not attend the hearing and retired from the force using rights afforded to him by police regulations before his case ended.

If he had still been in the force when the verdict came in, he would have been instantly dismissed by his superiors.

This bad behaviour has led to him being banned from working in the police ever again.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills said: “Wiltshire Police and the public expect the very highest level of professionalism from everyone who serves within the policing.

“As both a police officer and supervisor, Det Sgt Atkinson betrayed the trust invested in him and subjected junior female colleagues to inappropriate sexual behaviour and comments while on duty.

“I want to thank the women, who were subjected to the wholly unacceptable actions of this former officer, for their professionalism and moral courage in reporting these matters so the appropriate action could be taken.

“The allegations against him were heard by an independent hearing who concluded on six counts that the behaviour alleged against him amounted to proven gross misconduct.

“Under police regulations, Detective Sergeant Atkinson exercised his right to retire prior to the hearing - however if he had of been serving he would have been dismissed without notice.

"He will now go onto the national barred list, which will stop him working in policing again.

“Needless to say, the actions of former Detective Sergeant Atkinson will significantly and understandably impact the confidence and trust of the public in policing.

"Furthermore, his actions undermine the commitment and professionalism of those within our organisation who strive to deliver the very best service to the public each and every day.”