A DETECTIVE who used work emails to arrange sex sessions with a colleague while on duty has been sacked for gross misconduct.

The constable, based in north Essex, used his work email to send sexist, disrespectful and inappropriate comments about his colleagues between May 2014 and January 2015.

But the officer ramped up his activity between October 2015 and August this year, using emails to send inappropriate sexual emails to a colleague, which included making arrangements to meet for sex while on duty.

A special case hearing chaired by chief constable Stephen Kavanagh found the pair then engaged in “sexual conduct” while on duty between January 2016 and August 2016.

Mr Kavanagh said: "The officer was engaging in sexual activity when he was on duty and being paid to investigate crimes and support victims.

"The amount of time wasted that could have ultimately been used to bring prosecutions against offenders is disgraceful.

"He has let down the victims he was meant to be supporting, his colleagues who strive every day to keep the county’s most vulnerable people safe, and ultimately the residents of Essex.

"I also note the deeply offensive and sexist nature of the wording and language in the emails sent between May 2014 and January 2015.

"The holding of office of constable carries with it significant responsibilities and those who hold the office are expected by both me and the public to demonstrate sound values, judgment and character.

"This officer has shown a complete lack of values, judgment and character and there is no place in Essex Police for anyone who conducts themselves in such a way.”

The officer was found to have breached the standards of professional behaviour in the areas of authority, respect and courtesy; orders and instructions; duties and responsibilities; and discreditable conduct.

He was dismissed following the hearing at Chelmsford County Court on Friday.

Mr Kavanagh decided not to publicly identify the officers because of the nature of the conduct.