Police Officer Banned from Force After Drug Discovery

Police Constable Mathew Carter has been prohibited from police service after being discovered with illicit drugs. Carter was found in possession of a wrap of cocaine when Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers stopped him during an evening out on September 21, 2023. Although off-duty at the time, Carter provided false information to officers regarding the drugs and his occupation. He subsequently resigned from Cumbria Police; however, a misconduct hearing held on Wednesday determined that his conduct constituted gross misconduct. During the hearing, it was revealed that Carter informed GMP officers he “worked for the council looking after vulnerable people.” Furthermore, in an interview with GMP, he submitted a signed, pre-prepared statement asserting that he had “never bought or possessed drugs of any kind.” Nevertheless, in a subsequent statement provided to Cumbria Police, he stated that he had “previously had an issue with minor drug use” but that “part of his life is long since over.” An analysis of Carter’s mobile phone uncovered text messages from a third party, indicating that he had traveled to Preston to purchase drugs. The messages additionally alleged that Carter owed the other individual £1,000. The panel concluded that his actions violated the force’s professional behaviour standard concerning honesty and integrity, thereby constituting gross misconduct. Chief Constable Rob Carden commented that Carter’s conduct was “unacceptable.” He added, “The result of the hearing will mean Carter is placed on the national Barred List.”