A FORMER Essex Police officer has been found to have committed gross misconduct by making sexually inappropriate comments to a woman, who was a member of the public, whilst on duty.

An investigation by our Professional Standards Department found former Essex Police Inspector Sami Dawood had acted inappropriately towards the woman, making overtly sexual comments to her on two occasions in 2024.

On both occasions, whilst on duty, he came across the woman at a retail premises and started an unwanted sexually explicit conversation with her. 

It was alleged that his actions breached three Standards of Professional Behaviour in relation to Authority, Respect & Courtesy; Discreditable Conduct; and Equality & Diversity.

A four-day misconduct hearing at Chelmsford Civic Centre began on Monday 17 March and was chaired by Assistant Chief Officer Fiona Henderson. The case was proven as gross misconduct.

It was found that ex-Insp Sami Dawood would have been dismissed had he still been serving.

ACO Henderson said: “First and foremost I want to apologise to the member of the public in this case, who should never have had to experience Sami Dawood’s appalling behaviour. His actions fell well below the high standards we demand and expect of all our employees here at Essex Police.

“To engage in such an offensive and disrespectful way with a member of the public who was going about her business is abhorrent and will not be tolerated. 

“I’d like to thank her for her courage in speaking up and giving evidence, something that she may have found difficult, but something she can be rightly proud of.

“We have worked hard to stamp out misogyny and poor treatment of women, both inside and outside the force, and this case shows that are committed to doing so.

“It’s not only the right thing to do, but it’s important to continue to set high standards for all our officers, staff and volunteers to adhere to throughout their careers with the force. 

“We will rightly and robustly deal with those who act inappropriately towards women in public and in private – and indeed within our force – and we encourage everyone to report concerning behaviour so we can deal with it as a priority.”

Sami Dawood resigned from Essex Police in December 2024.