By: Adam Postans

Two former special constables who sent "derogatory and discriminatory" WhatsApp messages to each other face an Avon & Somerset Police misconduct hearing.

The men, who were based in South Gloucestershire and in Somerset, are accused of gross misconduct.

A publicity notice for the hearing on Friday, June 10, says the pair allegedly breached the standards of professional behaviour for police officers in terms of honesty and integrity, equality and diversity, authority, respect and courtesy, and discreditable conduct.

They sent each other "posts, photos, messages and videos" on the messaging app which were "inappropriate, derogatory and discriminatory in nature on the grounds of disability, race, religion and sex", it is alleged.

One of the men, referred to as former special constable Y, posted the content between April 25, 2019, and July 11 last year and the other sent the messages between November 1, 2019, and October 27, 2021, the notice says.

They are also accused of having "failed to challenge improper conduct when receiving and having read" the inappropriate posts.

"If proven, the allegations would amount to gross misconduct," the notice adds.

The public hearing takes place at force headquarters in Portishead.