A senior police officer, aged 41, has tendered his resignation following a scandal involving breaking lockdown restrictions to engage in sexual activities with a 24-year-old trainee he had assisted in joining the police force. Chief Superintendent Daniel Greenwood, who was in charge of West Yorkshire Police’s Covid enforcement team, admitted to gross misconduct after admitting to a sexual relationship with probationary officer Caitlin Howarth.
The relationship between Greenwood and Howarth began when they met in March 2020, with Greenwood aiding Howarth in becoming a police officer by expediting her application process. The misconduct came to light when Howarth, now 24, entered into a sexual relationship with a drug dealer she met on Tinder. Greenwood faced allegations of gross misconduct spanning from March 2019 to November 2021 and resigned from his position within the police force. Howarth, who had already resigned from West Yorkshire Police, is set to face a future disciplinary hearing.
At a police disciplinary hearing, it was revealed that Greenwood had breached Covid restrictions in the summer of 2020 to engage in sexual activities with Howarth. They exchanged sexually-charged messages, and their relationship escalated, with encounters taking place during lockdown restrictions.
Greenwood’s actions included visiting Howarth’s residence for sexual encounters, providing her with special treatment including new police attire, gifts, and personal favours. Despite the relationship with Greenwood, Howarth also engaged in a sexual relationship with a drug dealer, which was subsequently discovered. Upon learning of Howarth’s arrest related to her association with the drug dealer, Greenwood deleted data from his phone.
During the disciplinary hearing, it was noted that Greenwood had a history of alcohol addiction and exhibited addictive behaviour. Despite the challenges he faced, his family stood by him during this difficult time. Greenwood admitted to gross misconduct and acknowledged the end of his policing career.
The panel overseeing the hearing stated that Greenwood would have been dismissed had he not already resigned two days prior. The case against Howarth was discontinued by the Crown Prosecution Service, and she has resigned from the force. The incidents involving Greenwood and Howarth have sparked controversy and raised questions about professional conduct within the police force.
The revelations surrounding Greenwood’s resignation shed light on the importance of upholding standards of behaviour and integrity within law enforcement agencies. As the fallout from this scandal continues, it serves as a reminder of the consequences of misconduct and the impact it can have on individuals and institutions involved.