Police Officer Fired for Groping Colleagues at Party
A North Wales police officer has been dismissed after allegations of indecent behavior during a colleague’s leaving party. PC Pamela Pritchard, aged 29, was accused of groping two fellow officers while heavily intoxicated at Caernarfon Rugby Club in March 2024.
Details of the Incident
During the party on March 29, 2024, PC Pritchard engaged in multiple inappropriate actions. Reports indicate that she groped a male colleague, referred to as Police Constable B, on two occasions. Firstly, in the bar area, she allegedly reached below his belt. He described the incident as humiliating and stated it was wholly inappropriate.
Further Allegations
Later in the evening, PC Pritchard is said to have again grabbed PC B before kissing him in public. Additionally, she was reported to have groped a female officer, referred to as Police Constable A, while dancing suggestively.
Misconduct Hearing Outcome
A misconduct hearing was held in Colwyn Bay, Conwy. The panel found all allegations against PC Pritchard to be substantiated, confirming a breach of the police force’s standards of behavior. Assistant Chief Constable Chris Allsop stated the misconduct was “of medium to high seriousness,” justifying her dismissal.
PC Pritchard’s Defense
- PC Pritchard admitted her behavior was inappropriate but disputed the classification as gross misconduct.
- She expressed regret during the hearing, stating she was mortified by her actions and felt like she had let down the police force and her family.
- Her defense argued that this was a momentary lapse and there was no risk of recurrence.
Impact and Reactions
PC Pritchard has reported experiencing panic attacks and nightmares since the incident, fearing she would be labeled a sexual predator. The panel’s decision reflects the serious nature of the misconduct in police conduct and aims to maintain standards within the force.
Key Takeaways
- PC Pamela Pritchard was dismissed for groping colleagues at a party.
- The incidents occurred during a drunken celebration for a colleague’s departure.
- The misconduct hearing confirmed the breach of police behavior standards.
- Her actions have sparked discussions about professional conduct within law enforcement.
