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Police Officer Fired for Attempted Perfume Theft

2/20/2026

40 5 Full Breakdown

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Detective Dismissed for Misconduct

Detective Constable Tracey Smith of Greater Manchester Police was dismissed after a misconduct hearing found her actions gross misconduct for attempting to steal a £105 perfume bottle from John Lewis.
She admitted the offense and paid a civil recovery fee.
The tribunal ruled mental health issues did not excuse the conduct, and Smith was banned from John Lewis stores and added to the College of Policing's Barred List.

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Sergeant Fired for Misconduct

Sergeant Matt Skelt of the Metropolitan Police was dismissed for gross misconduct for promoting his pizza business while on long-term sick leave.
In August 2025, a letter rescinded authorization to run the business, citing a conflict with his recovery.
He claimed financial necessity and offered to resign to avoid discipline.
The tribunal found his actions incompatible with his role, noting that being well enough to work did not justify them.

History

Historical Context

The scrutiny of UK police misconduct intensified after the Hillsborough disaster in 1989, which exposed systemic failures. In 2013, the Independent Police Complaints Commission reported over 1,000 annual misconduct cases, highlighting ongoing issues. The recent dismissals of officers Tracey Smith and Matt Skelt underscore the urgent need for accountability measures to restore public trust in law enforcement.

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Detective Dismissed for Misconduct

Detective Constable Tracey Smith of Greater Manchester Police was dismissed after a misconduct hearing found her actions gross misconduct for attempting to steal a £105 perfume bottle from John Lewis.
She admitted the offense and paid a civil recovery fee.
The tribunal ruled mental health issues did not excuse the conduct, and Smith was banned from John Lewis stores and added to the College of Policing's Barred List.

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