A Notts police officer has been sacked for failing to spot that an elderly man’s licence had been revoked two months before he caused a fatal crash on the M1.
PC Jonathan Mortimer, 41, admitted failing to make adequate inquiries into the driving of 87-year-old Albert Newman and was fired following an internal Notts Police conduct hearing.
The hearing was told in August 2015 PC Mortimer received a report from a witness who saw Mr Newman get into his car and drive off despite being disorientated.
On October 12 Mr Newman, who was from Nottingham, drove the wrong way on the M1 and was in collision with a van near Lockington, Leicestershire.
Mr Newman died along with a passenger in the van, Michael Luciw, who was 27 and also from Nottingham. The van driver was also seriously injured.
PC Mortimer, based at St Ann’s Police Station, also admitted failing to adequately check Police National Computer records relating to the pensioner’s driving licence which showed it had been revoked.
He denied an allegation that he had submitted reports to the Professional Standards Directorate, the contents of which were materially false.
He may now appeal the decision.
He was found to have breached the standards expected of him in relation to duties and responsibilities, discreditable conduct and honesty and integrity between August 11 2015 and February 9 2016.
Detective Inspector Louise Jordan said: “I must echo the views of the panel in agreeing that the officer, having been found in breach of honesty and integrity, discreditable conduct and duties and responsibilities, leaves no option other than dismissal.
“The panel’s decision to dismiss PC Mortimer recognises the need for the public to have confidence in Nottinghamshire Police and in the officers who serve our communities to act with the up most honesty and integrity.
Phill Matthews, of Nottinghamshire Police Federation, said: “We are deeply disappointed by the finding and sanction handed down today. The Federation has supported Jonathan throughout this lengthy investigation and hearing.
“He admitted his mistake in not spotting the licence revocation at the outset and had continued in his front line role throughout this period, with nearly 20 years of unblemished service. We are now considering our position.”
