MISCONDUCT and inappropriate behaviour by police officers in North Yorkshire has led to a number of them being thrown out of the force.

Statistics show that 13 members of staff have been dismissed for a variety of reasons over the past 17 months. One disgraced officer was sacked for a range of issues, including disobeying orders, discreditable conduct and questions surrounding his integrity.

Two PCSOs were also thrown out of the force; one for poor performance and the other for misconduct. The force also dismissed ten other staff – six for misconduct, two for poor performance and two during their probation period.

Mark Botham, chairman of the North Yorkshire Police Federation, said: “Investigations into police officers in terms of conduct is a rigorous and fair system and there is no place in the police service for officers who have been found guilty of misconduct.

“However, there are two sides to every story and there are appeal measures when appropriate just as there would be for any member of the public.”