Officer Engages in ‘Sexual Activity’ with Colleague While on Duty in Police Vehicle

A former officer, Chris Heffernan, also known as officer 177 Heffernan, faced consequences after meeting his off-duty colleague for a sexual encounter while on duty for Lancashire Police. The incident took place on September 18, 2019, where Heffernan engaged in sexual activity with his colleague inside a police vehicle while he was supposed to be working. The misconduct panel, consisting of legally qualified chair Paul Forster, police panel member Claire Cooper-Moore, and independent panel member Kathryn Foreman, found that this behavior violated professional standards, including discreditable conduct, honesty, integrity, and duties and responsibilities, amounting to gross misconduct.

• If Heffernan had continued in his role as a police officer, he would have been dismissed.
• Heffernan’s resignation while under investigation led to his inclusion on the barred list maintained by the College of Policing.

The Lancashire Police misconduct webpage detailed the incident, stating, “On the 18 September 2019 former Officer 117 Heffernan arranged to meet an off-duty police staff member and engaged in sexual activity with her in a police vehicle whilst on duty.” The panel confirmed the breaches of professional behavior standards and the ensuing gross misconduct. The incident resulted in Heffernan’s dismissal had he still been an active officer, leading to his inclusion on the barred list.

This incident sheds light on the importance of upholding professional standards and responsibilities, especially within law enforcement agencies. It serves as a reminder of the consequences individuals may face for misconduct while on duty.