UK Police Officer Fired Over Homophobic Messages

Messages Sent to “Blend In”

PC Gareth Horton, a British police officer, admitted to sending homophobic, transphobic, and racist messages to “blend in.” These exchanges, conducted via WhatsApp in 2023 with a colleague from Merseyside Police, were uncovered by the BBC.

Content of the Messages Exposed

During a disciplinary tribunal, it was revealed that Horton had reacted to offensive messages with “crying-laughing emojis” and had also sent his own texts containing homophobic and violent remarks. Among them were insults aimed at TV presenter Phillip Schofield and inappropriate comments about a transphobic advertisement.

These messages surfaced during an investigation into another officer.

Public Reaction Expected to Be “Rightfully Outraged”

Police lawyer Katherine Hampshire stressed that if these messages were made public, the reaction would be one of “rightful outrage.”

“Deep Regret” Expressed

At the hearing, Horton apologized, claiming he only wanted to “blend in” after joining Merseyside Police in 2020.

“I was still trying to fit in and make friends,” he stated, attributing his actions to “ignorance and foolishness.”

“This behavior does not represent my true self,” he insisted.

Defense Argues He Was “Honest and Transparent”

Horton’s lawyer, Susan Ferrier, defended him, arguing that he had been “completely honest and transparent” throughout the process.

“He acknowledges his mistake, but he has made every effort to correct the situation,” she said, suggesting that a final written warning would be a more appropriate disciplinary measure.

Immediate Dismissal Ordered

However, disciplinary panel chairman Ian Arundale ruled that the gravity of the case warranted immediate dismissal.

He highlighted that Horton’s messages demonstrated a “high level of misconduct” and reflected a “pattern of behavior” targeting legally protected groups.

Horton left the hearing alongside his wife following the verdict. His name will now be added to the list of individuals banned from working in law enforcement.