UPDATE: A North Wales policewoman, PC Pamela Pritchard, is at the center of a misconduct hearing following serious allegations of inappropriate behavior during a boozy leaving party last year. The hearing, which began earlier today in Colwyn Bay, reveals shocking claims that Pritchard squeezed a colleague’s breasts and attempted to kiss an inspector.
The incident reportedly took place in March 2022, at the Caernarfon rugby club, where Pritchard insists she was not drunk, although she admitted to having “no recollection” of the events. Emotional testimonies are unfolding, as Pritchard expressed fears that people would label her a “sexual predator.”
“I really, really struggled, I have had nightmares,” Pritchard told the panel, tearfully recounting the aftermath of her arrest. “I felt like people thought I was a sexual predator.” The 28-year-old probationary constable claimed that her behavior was out of character and that she is “mortified” by the allegations against her.
Testimonies from colleagues paint a troubling picture. One officer, referred to as PC A, described a moment on the dance floor where Pritchard allegedly approached from behind and squeezed her breasts. In response, Pritchard denied touching her and stated, “I would never sexually assault anyone.”
Legal counsel for the police complaints authority, Jonathan Landau, confronted Pritchard with the accusation of “victim-blaming” regarding her claims against another colleague, PC B. Pritchard has also been accused of inappropriate actions towards PC B, including kissing him and allegedly making crude remarks. “I know that’s completely out of order,” she admitted in court.
Despite the serious nature of the accusations, Pritchard maintains her innocence, asserting that any contact with PC B was consensual and that she had no interest in him. “I completely deny sexually assaulting him,” she stated, insisting that her past experiences with alcohol had not led to such behavior.
Pritchard’s lawyer, Fiona Clancy, emphasized that the allegations do not amount to gross misconduct and that the events of that night are being misrepresented. The policewoman, who worked previously as a healthcare assistant and prison officer, has expressed a deep commitment to her role in law enforcement, stating, “The police was the only thing I wanted to do.”
As the hearing continues, the emotional weight of the testimonies and the potential ramifications for Pritchard loom large. The case raises significant questions about the conduct of police officers and the serious implications of their actions during off-duty events.
Stay tuned for updates as the hearing unfolds, and more details are expected to emerge regarding this urgent case.
