Steven Crossley in successful defence of South Yorkshire Firearms Officer

April 27, 2016

Steven Crossley from Exchange Chambers has successfully defended a South Yorkshire Firearms Officer accused of gross misconduct.

The Officer had used force against an individual he genuinely believed was attempting to remove his police issue Glock 17 pistol.

Notwithstanding the importance of the Officer retaining his firearm and the obvious danger to others in its removal, the IPCC recommended the officer face a Gross Misconduct Hearing for an allegation of a breach of the Standards of Professional Behaviour (Use of Force).

On 27th April. following a 3 day public hearing, the Panel agreed that the Officer’s use of force was reasonable, proportionate and necessary. The case had potentially wide ranging implications for Firearms Officers in the use of force in weapons retention. The Hearing was one of the first to have a panel chaired by an independent and legally qualified member following the commencement of Regulation 5 of the Police (Conduct) (Amendment) Regulations 2015. The new regulations were introduced by Parliament to promote independent decision making concerning allegations of police misconduct.

Steven was instructed by Darren Cook of Slater and Gordon.

Steven is recognised as a Leading Individual in Legal 500 [2015] and is a member of Exchange Chambers’ police law and disciplinary team.