Scandal in Sussex: Police Officer Resigns After Ignoring Emergency Call for Personal Encounter
In a shocking turn of events, a police officer from Sussex has resigned after a scandal involving a missed emergency 999 call while he was engaged in a sexual encounter with his ex-girlfriend. The incident has raised serious questions about professionalism and accountability within the police force, highlighting the potential consequences of personal indiscretions during duty hours.
The Incident: A Breach of Duty
On November 23, 2021, PC Steven Austin allegedly made the decision to visit his ex-girlfriend’s home in the middle of his shift. While the pair were involved in a sexual encounter, Austin received a Grade 1 emergency call on his police radio. This call was critical, concerning a violent altercation that had erupted following an attempted robbery at a local shop. The situation escalated to the point where the shop owner was reportedly punched multiple times and subsequently chased by the suspect, necessitating an immediate police response to prevent potential loss of life.
Despite the urgency of the situation, Austin ignored not one, but four separate calls from his colleagues who were attempting to reach him. Instead of responding to the emergency, he remained at the woman’s residence for approximately 90 minutes before eventually resuming his shift.
The Fallout: Investigation and Resignation
The repercussions of Austin’s actions began to unfold when the woman he was with texted a mutual friend, revealing that he had missed an emergency call while they were together. The friend’s response—“During work? That’s a job loser. Tell work”—prompted an investigation by Sussex Police. This incident not only raised eyebrows but also sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities of police officers while on duty.
During a tribunal held in March, evidence was presented, including doorbell footage and phone mapping, which placed Austin at the woman’s home during the time of the emergency call. Despite this, Austin maintained his innocence, claiming he was only at the property for a mere 13 minutes. However, the overwhelming evidence against him painted a different picture.
The Relationship: A Complicated History
Austin’s relationship with the woman in question was described as long-standing, with the couple sharing a child together. However, they had reportedly split prior to the incident. This complicated personal history adds another layer to the narrative, as it raises questions about the officer’s judgment and priorities during a critical time when public safety was at stake.
The Aftermath: No Further Action
As the tribunal proceedings continued, Austin made the decision to resign from the police force. His resignation means that he will face no further disciplinary action and will retain his police pension, a point that has sparked outrage among those who believe that accountability is essential in law enforcement.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and responsibility within the police force. Officers are entrusted with the safety of the public, and any breach of that trust can have serious implications not only for the individuals involved but also for the community as a whole.
Conclusion: A Call for Accountability
The resignation of PC Steven Austin is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of personal choices made during professional duties. As the Sussex Police force moves forward, this incident may serve as a catalyst for discussions about accountability, professionalism, and the expectations placed on those who serve and protect the community. The public deserves to know that their safety is the top priority for law enforcement officers, and incidents like this highlight the need for ongoing training and oversight to ensure that such breaches of duty do not occur in the future.