Following a hearing earlier today (4 December), former Police Constable Mathew Carter was found to have breached the standards of professional behaviour, amounting to gross misconduct and dismissal without notice, had he still been a serving officer.

The hearing heard how Carter had been found in possession of a controlled drug after he was stopped by a police officer in Manchester in September 2023.

Carter’s case was brought before the hearing, chaired by Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Dave Stalker, over breaches of the Standards of Professional Behaviour with respect to Discreditable Conduct, and Honesty and Integrity. 

Carter had resigned from his role as a police constable prior to the hearing.

Chief Constable Rob Carden, Cumbria Constabulary, said: “The actions of the former Police Constable, which included obtaining illegal drugs and being dishonest during a police interview, were unacceptable. 

“I can assure the public that the overwhelming majority of our officers conduct themselves in a manner we can all be extremely proud.

“When the high standards expected of officers are not maintained, those individuals will be held accountable.

“The result of the hearing will mean Carter is placed on the national Barred List."