Ex-Detective Sergeant Sebastian Day sent inappropriate WhatsApp messages to a female subordinate, breaching professional standards and leading to dismissal.
Former Detective Sergeant Sebastian Day of Sussex Police was found to have committed gross misconduct by sending a series of inappropriate and sexually suggestive WhatsApp messages to a female colleague under his supervision. The messages, sent on 23 April 2021, included proposals to stay overnight together at a hotel, engage in sexual acts in a taxi, and meet on the seafront. These messages began during a workplace conversation about a retirement party and continued for approximately 35 minutes, extending beyond work hours while the colleague was driving home. The female colleague described feeling awkward and very uncomfortable, with concerns about potential differential treatment at work.
The misconduct panel found that Day’s conduct breached the Standards of Professional Behaviour relating to Authority, Respect and Courtesy, and Discreditable Conduct. His actions were unprofessional, laden with sexual innuendo, persistent, and could be perceived as harassing. The panel noted the abuse of his supervisory role and the power imbalance involved, which undermined public confidence in policing.
Day accepted the allegations and acknowledged the inappropriateness of his conduct. The panel considered the seriousness of the breaches, the harm caused, and the lack of sufficient mitigation. It concluded that dismissal without notice would have been the appropriate sanction had Day still been serving. The panel emphasized the importance of maintaining public confidence and upholding high professional standards. Day was informed of his right to appeal. A report will be sent to the College of Policing to place him on the Police Barred List.
