A Greater Manchester Police officer facing accusations of sexual harassment towards two female colleagues has been fully cleared by a misconduct panel, which ruled the claims were 'not proven'. The case, which highlighted the professional standards expected of officers serving communities across Oldham, concluded on Thursday (May 8).

Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker chaired the hearing which heard that Officer X, who cannot be named due to the nature of the proceedings, had allegedly behaved in an 'unwanted, inappropriate and sexually harassing manner' against two colleagues in February and April last year.

The first complaint was brought by a junior female civilian member of staff, referred to in the hearing as Person A. She alleged Officer X asked her if she liked 'hotel sex' and 'enjoyed having casual sex'. She also claimed he referenced one-night stands and made a comment about her going to the gym which she interpreted as relating to her figure.

However, ACC Parker stated that Person A's 'recollection of events' was found to be 'vague'. While the panel accepted the pair engaged in an 'evolving adult conversation' and shared a common background, they did not find that an 'uncomfortable, degrading and intimidating environment' was created. The first allegation was ruled not proven.

The second complaint was made by a police officer referred to as PC B. She alleged that Officer X made inappropriate comments towards her in a marked police car after she accidentally brushed his leg while changing gear. ACC Parker explained that the panel was 'not confident' in PC B's 'accuracy or reliability', and did not accept her suggestion that Officer X was trying to 'get her on his own'.

Announcing the verdict, ACC Parker said: "The panel do not accept the factual elements of this case are proven." All potential breaches of standards of professional behaviour were dismissed in full.

Breaking down in tears during the hearing, Officer X denied the allegations and said: "Throughout my life I have never been anything of a misogynist. I have got a little daughter that I think the world of. I have never been a misogynist in my life." He added that every woman he had previously worked with had given him 'glowing reports' and felt supported.

The case comes amid wider scrutiny of culture within Greater Manchester Police. For residents of Oldham—from Failsworth to Saddleworth—the hearing underscores the internal mechanisms used to hold officers to account, and the force's stated commitment to professional standards and supporting whistleblowers.

Officer X remains on active duty. The independent panel concluded that the factual basis for the complaints had not been made out.