Lancashire Police officer who allegedly failed drugs test to face misconduct hearing in Ormskirk

PC Stevens allegedly tested positive for synthetic anabolic steroids (a Class C drug) in a urine test.

This would amount to gross misconduct and breach the Standards of Professional Behaviour in respect of discreditable conduct and fitness for duty.

He will subsequently go before a misconduct panel chaired by Chief Constable Chris Rowley on August 18.

If the allegations are found to be true, Mr Rowley will have the power to implement sanctions ranging from a warning to dismissal with immediate effect.

What does the Standards of Professional Behaviour mean?

The standards of professional behaviour, as reflected in the Code of Ethics, are a statement of the expectations that the police and the public have of how officers should behave.

What is the Code of Ethics?

The Code of Ethics was produced by the College of Policing in 2014 in its role as the professional body for policing.

It sets and defines the exemplary standards of behaviour for everyone who works in policing.

What does discreditable conduct and fitness for duty mean?

Discreditable conduct: Police officers should behave in a manner which does not discredit the police service or undermine public confidence in it, whether on or off duty.

Police officers should also report any action taken against them for a criminal offence, any conditions imposed on them by a court or the receipt of any penalty notice.

Fitness for for duty: Police officers when on duty or presenting themselves for duty are fit to carry out.