A Bedfordshire police officer, Daniel Goodman, who transmitted indecent texts to a vulnerable woman he had previously apprehended would have faced dismissal for his behaviour, a hearing has determined.
PC Daniel Goodman transmitted messages to the woman subsequent to returning her phone, following his request to connect with her on social media platforms.
Daniel Goodman was also discovered to have solicited phone numbers from female members of the public while on duty and to have engaged in inappropriate conversation with at least one female he encountered during his service.
The accusation regarding the misuse of his position as a police officer on a dating site proved unsubstantiated.
A misconduct panel determined that his conduct violated the standards of professional behaviour regarding honesty and integrity; authority, respect, and civility; compliance with orders and instructions; and discreditable conduct. Their conclusion was that the violations constituted serious misconduct.
Daniel Goodman resigned prior to the hearing but would have been terminated had he remained in service. He will be included on the College of Policing prohibited list, prohibiting his return to policing or analogous professions.
During the court, Assistant Chief Constable John Murphy stated: “PC Daniel Goodman egregiously exploited his authority, especially in his conduct towards Ms. A, who had been apprehended by the former officer and was under his supervision.” She was susceptible and need protection, not exposure to his predatory conduct.
Public apprehension regarding police officers’ conduct, particularly in their interactions with females, is pronounced, and the officer’s reprehensible behaviour will further erode that trust and confidence. There is unequivocally no role in law enforcement for those who behave in this manner.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.