AN Essex police officer has been given a final written warning after being found to have committed misconduct.

PC Jonathan Steel was alleged to have breached standards of policing in relation to authority, respect and courtesy, and discreditable conduct, following an allegation of misconduct while socialising with colleagues off-duty. Four allegations were made regarding PC Steel:

1. It was alleged he made sexualised inappropriate comments to a female colleague.
2. It was also alleged on another occasion socialising with colleagues he placed his hands on two female colleagues.
3. He was further alleged to have made sexualised comments to another female officer.
4. He was also alleged to have sent sexualised text messages.

The hearing was chaired by Assistant Chief Constable Glen Pavelin on 27 July 2026. Allegations 3 and 4 were found to be proven. Allegation 2 was found to be proven but that the physical contact had no sexual element. Allegation 1 was found to be not proven.

The panel concluded PC Steel was in breach of standards of policing in relation to authority, respect and courtesy, and discreditable conduct, and received a final written warning lasting three years.

ACC Pavelin said: "PC Steel's behaviour fell below the standards we expect of our officers, so it was crucial these misconduct proceedings took place.

"Our officers must be treated – and be able to expect to be treated – with respect and courtesy by their colleagues. That extends to time spent together off-shift; there is no appropriate time for this unwanted contact or these remarks."