Sussex Police Detective Dismissed After Misconduct Hearing

A Sussex Police detective has been dismissed after a disciplinary hearing found that she falsely closed a sexual assault investigation.

Detective Sergeant Karen Young, 43, based in West Sussex, was found to have acted dishonestly by claiming the victim was no longer supportive of the investigation.

The misconduct hearing, held from 4-6 June at Sussex Police headquarters, was led by an Independent Legally Qualified Chair (LQC). The panel determined that DS Young breached professional standards related to duties, responsibilities, honesty, and integrity. The investigation log falsely recorded that the case was closed due to lack of victim support, which was untrue.

Detective Superintendent Andy Wolstenholme, Deputy Head of Professional Standards, stated, “Victims of crime are always at the heart of our investigations, and we aim to provide the very best service. We are sorry that we did not do so on this occasion; we have reopened the investigation and will continue to support the victim until the conclusion of the case.” He emphasised the importance of police integrity and public trust, noting that DS Young’s actions undermined these values.