A Nigerian-British officer, PC Shola Balogun, based at Bromley, has been dismissed by the Metropolitan Police Service following accusations that he assaulted a colleague during a 40th birthday gathering in Bexleyheath, Kent. The incident, which allegedly involved Balogun biting a fellow officer, occurred on April 22, 2022, at the Goals Sports Bar, where approximately 70 guests were present.
The dismissal decision was reached after a disciplinary hearing held from October 21-23, 2024. Senior Officer Christopher McKay presided over the hearing alongside panel members IPM Amanda Harvey and Assessor-Detective Superintendent Kirsty Mead.
Details from the hearing reveal that PC Balogun and the victim, both Bromley-based officers, had known each other since June 2018 and shared a friendly professional relationship. According to records, light-hearted interactions had occurred between them in the past, with no major conflicts. Reports indicate that the event unfolded after the victim arrived at the party around 9 p.m., having met with other officers at a nearby pub. Balogun joined the gathering later, and both officers had reportedly consumed alcohol that evening.
As the night progressed, the victim claims that around 11:30 p.m., while ascending stairs from the dance floor, Balogun grabbed his spectacles and dropped them, sparking confusion. The victim recounts approaching Balogun, who allegedly responded by pushing his hand to the victim’s throat. Later, while the two conversed in close proximity due to loud music, Balogun reportedly leaned in and bit the right side of the victim’s face.
However, Balogun’s account of the night differed significantly. He claimed any contact with the victim’s glasses was accidental and denied pushing or biting his colleague. Nonetheless, medical records verified a bite mark on the victim’s face, contradicting Balogun’s claims.
The hearing document cited a Regulation 30 Notice, which argued that Balogun’s actions discredited the police force and breached standards of Discreditable Conduct, as set out in the College of Policing Code of Ethics. This standard stresses that police officers must uphold high behavioral expectations and always consider public perception, whether on or off duty.
Witnesses, including an inspector who had managed Balogun for nearly five years, commended his character and professional conduct. However, the panel also reviewed Balogun’s previous disciplinary history, considering it in their final decision. Citing the case of Salter v Chief Constable of Dorset [2012] EWCA Civ 1047, the panel noted that, while good character can mitigate disciplinary actions, maintaining public confidence remains paramount.
Ultimately, the panel concluded that Balogun’s actions warranted dismissal without notice, as a Final Written Warning would be insufficient given the severity of the incident. The panel’s decision emphasized the need to uphold the reputation and trust in the police service.
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