A former south Essex police sergeant has been found to have committed gross misconduct after he sent "sexist and misogynistic" messages towards colleagues in a group chat.

Former PS Tim Littman was subject to an accelerated misconduct hearing on Thursday, February 22, where it was alleged the former sergeant had breached the standards of professional behaviour in the areas of authority, respect and courtesy, and equality and diversity.

The allegations concerned messages sent by PS Littman - who was based in south Essex - in a group chat which were assessed as "derogatory, sexist and misogynistic" towards colleagues.

The allegations were found proven following the hearing, which was chaired by Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington.

The hearing ruled PS Littman would have been dismissed if he was still serving.

Chief Constable Harrington said: “I expect all officers and staff to display professionalism, courtesy and respect in their day-to-day interactions with colleagues and members of the public.

“This expectation is observed by the vast majority of my officers, but the actions of PS Littman fell well below the high standards set by Essex Police.

“There is absolutely no room for discrimination or sexism of any kind at Essex Police, which is why this matter has been treated so seriously.

“Through prioritising professional standards, ensuring our officers and staff know what is expected of them and supporting those who do the right thing we will continue to deter and detect those who do not meet those standards.

“The communities of Essex can be assured that when officers breach our very high standards, we will always take robust action.”