Trinity Professional Disciplinary and Misconduct barrister, Steven Reed, successfully defended six Lincolnshire police officers at a Police Misconduct Hearing that was conducted between the 7th to 17th September 2026, at Grantham Police Station.
The officers faced allegations that emanated from their search of a female, detained under the Mental Health Act. The female had concealed tablets internally and was believed to be at risk of serious harm or death. It was alleged that the six officers had breached the authority, respect & courtesy; discreditable conduct; use of force; duties & responsibilities; and failure to challenge improper behaviour standards of professional behaviour (SPB).
Following a 9-day hearing, during which the Panel heard live evidence from the medical staff who were in attendance and the accused officers, the Panel found that:
- The cases against PS Rowe, PC Mounde, SC Denton and SC Horgan were not proved. Accordingly, the cases against them were dismissed.
- The case against PC Elder was only proved to the limited extent that he had breached the failure to challenge SPB. All other allegations faced by PC Elder were found to be not proved. His conduct was found to be at the level of misconduct only.
- Most of the case against PC Sleath was proved and cumulatively amounted to gross misconduct.
Having heard outcome submissions, the Panel found that the appropriate sanctions in this case were:
- PC Elder received a written warning.
- PC Sleath received a final written warning for 5 years.
Steven was instructed by Mr. Mark Smith on behalf of the Police Federation of England & Wales.
Steven specialises in all aspects of Police misconduct. Prior to joining the Bar, Steven was a Police Superintendent. He regularly represents Police Officers and Police Authorities at Misconduct Hearings across England and Wales.
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