Cop Slapped with Warning for Touching Colleague’s Bottom After Christmas Booze-Up
A police officer has narrowly escaped gross misconduct after inappropriately touching a colleague’s bottom while drunk on a Christmas night out. DC Natalie Baker faced a public misconduct hearing at Force HQ on Monday, 23 February.
Christmas Night Out Ends in Misconduct Hearing
The panel heard how DC Baker had been heavily intoxicated on 1 December 2024 when the incident occurred in a city centre bar. Upset and stumbling, she was helped outside by two colleagues. After ordering an Uber, a female colleague gave DC Baker a comforting hug. It was during a second embrace that DC Baker was accused of touching the woman—known only as Person A—in a sexual manner without consent.
Investigation Clears Gross Misconduct but Finds Misconduct
- DC Baker denied intentional wrongdoing, saying she didn’t remember the incident fully and any contact was accidental.
- Her legal team pointed out unclear CCTV footage and witness contradictions.
- The panel, led by DCC Rob Griffin, found no proof of intent but agreed the touch was inappropriate and unwanted.
DCC Griffin praised the thorough investigation and said both women gave credible testimony despite differing accounts. DC Baker received a written warning but kept her job.
“We expect our officers to maintain the highest standards on and off duty.” — DCC Rob Griffin
This case shines a spotlight on police conduct and the fine line between misconduct and gross misconduct, especially when alcohol is involved.
