A Metropolitan Police sergeant has been dismissed from the force following an investigation into an incident in which he inappropriately touched a fellow officer. The misconduct hearing concluded this week with the officer found guilty of gross misconduct.
Detective Sergeant Christopher Arnold, previously attached to Met Operations, was accused of groping a female colleague on 22 July 2021. A disciplinary panel confirmed that the incident did take place, resulting in his immediate dismissal and permanent removal from policing.
“It was found that DS Arnold had breached the standards of professional behaviour in relation to discreditable conduct. These breaches amounted to gross misconduct,” a Met Police spokesperson stated.
The misconduct panel sat for three days, carefully reviewing the details of the allegation. Evidence confirmed that DS Arnold had deliberately touched a female officer’s buttock. His actions were deemed intentional and wholly inappropriate for someone in his position.
“The panel heard that on 22 July 2021 an allegation was made that DS Arnold had intentionally touched a female officer on her buttock,” the spokesperson added.
Commander Lou Pudefoot, who oversees Met Operations, did not mince words in response to the findings.
“The actions of DS Arnold were completely inappropriate and his behaviour fell well below the standards expected of a Metropolitan Police officer. He has rightly been dismissed.”
The misconduct not only led to DS Arnold’s dismissal but also saw him placed on the College of Policing’s barred list — effectively preventing him from serving in any police force in the future.
The Metropolitan Police continues to grapple with internal reviews and public criticism over the conduct of its officers. Cases such as Arnold’s have fuelled calls for tighter oversight and a culture shift within the service.
This latest case sends a clear signal that inappropriate behaviour — especially involving abuse of position or colleagues — will be met with decisive consequences.
