Sussex Police Officer Reprimanded After Gross Misconduct Hearing

A Sussex Police officer has been reprimanded following an accelerated gross misconduct hearing.

Police Constable Matthew Crane was accused of inappropriately touching a member of his team while serving as a Sergeant in Eastbourne custody between 16 and 19 September 2023, while on duty.

The case was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which directed Sussex Police’s Professional Standards Department to carry out a local investigation.

PC Crane was charged with two counts of sexual assault.

At a criminal trial which concluded on 9 September 2025, he was found not guilty of one count, while the jury was unable to reach a verdict on the second.

Following the trial, gross misconduct proceedings were held in February, focusing on alleged breaches of professional standards, including discreditable conduct and authority, respect and courtesy.

He admitted his behaviour was inappropriate but denied it amounted to gross misconduct.

After a two-day hearing, the panel found gross misconduct proven. PC Crane was reduced in rank from Sergeant to Constable.