Former Met Police officer would have been dismissed for abusing his position with vulnerable woman

A former Metropolitan Police officer would have been dismissed for gross misconduct had he not already left the force, following an Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation.

A disciplinary panel found today (Friday 26 June) that ex-PC David Wager – who was based in Bexleyheath - abused his position as a police constable to pursue a sexual and emotional relationship with a woman he met during the course of his duties.

We began an independent investigation when the woman’s complaint was referred to us by the Met in March 2022. She had reported PC Wager’s behaviour to other officers during an unrelated incident.

Our investigation found he first met the woman while on duty in September 2016 and accompanied her to hospital while she was intoxicated and experiencing serious mental health issues.

While at the hospital, he touched her breast without consent.

Wager later initiated contact with her via Facebook – exchanging more than 300 messages in two weeks - and went on to pursue an emotional and sexual relationship, including visiting her at home. 

The officer knew the woman was in a vulnerable position, with documented mental health concerns.

IOPC director of engagement Amanda Rowe said: “This case involved a clear abuse of position, where a police officer was found to have developed a sexual and emotional relationship with a vulnerable woman he met while on duty.

“Police officers are expected to maintain the highest standards of professional behaviour and are well aware that they must never exploit their position for personal or sexual gain.

“This type of conduct fundamentally undermines public trust and confidence in policing. It is right that this behaviour has been robustly dealt with.”

As part of our investigation, we interviewed the officer, examined his digital devices and gathered evidence from witnesses and documentary sources. We examined police and medical records, witness accounts and more than 300 Facebook messages showing the progression of the relationship.

Former PC Wager denied the allegations but did not engage with the misconduct process. A panel today found the case for gross misconduct was proven and that he had breached the police standards of professional behaviour relating to honesty and integrity; authority, respect and courtesy; duties and responsibilities; and discreditable conduct.

He will now be added to the policing barred list.