PC 'left public unprotected' from weapons threat

A former police officer who “left the public unprotected” after failing to investigate reports of people brandishing weapons was banned from the force.

Jake Wood, who was previously a police constable with Bedfordshire Police, was found guilty of gross misconduct following a hearing.

After attending a “high threat” incident on Bury Park Road, Luton, on 21 June, he failed to speak to witnesses or make CCTV inquiries, despite recording that he did.

Chief Constable Trevor Rodenhurst said Wood’s actions were “of the most seriousness nature” and “could have led to serious consequences”.

Mr Wood also ignored the prompts of a colleague concerning an address in which there was a potential offender and reportedly played down the severity of the situation.

He was quizzed after his behaviour was reported by junior colleagues, to whom he set “a poor example” and “demonstrated unprofessional attitudes”.

“The incident he was deployed to was one of high threat and risk to the public involving individuals with weapons,” added Mr Rodenhurst.

“He lied to the control room concerning the action he had taken and in doing mislead the control room as to the nature of the potential threat.

“The actions of PC Wood compromised an investigation which resulted in a delay in securing evidence. Furthermore, an opportunity to apprehend offenders involved in violence and weapons on our streets, was potentially lost.”

Mr Wood, who has since left Bedfordshire Police, admitted wrongdoing and said his partner had health concerns which “subliminally affected his actions and decisions”.

Following the hearing, it was determined the behaviour of Wood amounted to gross misconduct and he was put on the College of Policing’s barred list.

Mr Rodenhurst said: “PC Wood failed to complete the basic inquiries expected of an officer and then provided false information.

“The actions of this officer have damaged trust and have made the job of those who continue to do their very best to serve the public potentially harder.

"These actions left the public unprotected and could have led to serious consequences.

“I have an absolute standard when it comes to the expectation of my officers and there is no room for officers who break the law and abuse their position.”

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