Statement from DCC Ian Critchley following sentencing of Constable Darren McIntyre

Merseyside Police can confirm Police Constable Darren McIntyre has today, Friday 16 July, been sentenced to 19 months in prison after being found guilty of Section 47 assault and perverting the course of justice.

The sentencing follows a thorough investigation by the force Professional Standards team, which also resulted in three other officers (Constables Garrie Burke, Laura Grant and Lauren Buchanan-Lloyd) being sentenced in May for perverting the course of justice.

The investigation was launched following an allegation of assault made by a member of the public relating to an incident at an address in Cherry Road, Ainsdale, in June 2019.

McIntyre was sentenced to four months for the assault and 15 months for the charge of perverting the course of justice.

Following the sentencing Deputy Chief Constable Ian Critchley, said: “Firstly, I would like to apologise to the victim for the actions of these officers and assure him that these officers do not represent the vast majority of the officers and staff who do uphold the high standards we, and the public, expect of our officers and staff.

“Constable McIntyre has not only let himself down, he has also let down his colleagues within the force who are committed to providing a professional service, and the communities we are there to protect.

“It is absolutely disheartening for those within the force who give their all day-in-day out and now they will be working harder to prove that his actions, and the actions of his three colleagues to cover it up, are not reflective of the force they serve.

“A number of colleagues did raise concerns in relation to the actions of these officers on the night and following the incident and I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the strength of those people in coming forward and doing the right thing.

"It is vital that people can have the confidence to speak out when there has been wrongdoing and are supported by the organisation and are able to uphold the high standards that we expect of our officers and staff across the force.

"We have also introduced a confidential reporting application to enable officers and staff to challenge conduct which falls outside of the standards of professional behaviour.

"I am very proud of Merseyside Police Officers and staff, none more so than over the last 18 months where colleagues have put the public and communities first , protecting communities during the challenges faced by a global pandemic.

"This appalling incident should not in anyway overshadow the outstanding service provided by the majority of my colleagues every single day , and as such I would like to reiterate my sincere apology to the victim of these officers' criminal behaviour."

Constables Burke and Grant were previously each given a 15 month custodial sentence.

Constable Buchanan-Lloyd was previously sentenced to nine months in prison, suspended for 18 months.

All four officers now face fast-track gross misconduct proceedings for breaches of the standards of professional behaviour connected to a criminal conviction.