A SERVING Essex Police officer was cleared of driving without due care and attention during a trial at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court.

The charge related to a collision involving a marked police vehicle in Harlow in September 2023 while PC Oliver Potts was responding to an incident.

An investigation was carried out by our Roads Policing Unit, which included gathering witness accounts, reviewing evidence and interviewing the officer involved.

Following consideration of the evidence, a charge of driving without due care and attention was authorised in January 2024.

PC Potts denied the charge and stood trial at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Friday 10 April, where a judge dismissed the case against him and directed a not guilty verdict be entered.

Acting Detective Superintendent Chris McGlade, of our Professional Standards Department, said:

“Police officers respond to emergency calls across Essex every day, often in fast-moving and challenging circumstances, and they are trained to do so safely and professionally.

“When incidents occur, it is right that they are examined thoroughly and independently so that all the circumstances can be properly considered.

“This demonstrates our commitment to transparency and accountability – and to ensuring that matters involving police drivers are investigated fully and fairly.”