A POLICE officer accused of sexual harassment is due to face a misconduct hearing.

Inspector Simon Gee is due to face a panel as part of Cumbria Police’s disciplinary process.

It is alleged he made sexualised comments to colleagues and touched a colleague's bare leg.

The panel will consider if his alleged behaviour constitutes gross misconduct.

The allegations listed by Cumbria Police say: "The allegations relate to inappropriate and/or sexualised comments towards colleagues outside of a work setting and intentionally touching a colleague’s bare leg.

"It is further alleged that this conduct, if proven, amounts to Gross Misconduct and is so serious as to justify dismissal."

Inspector Gee is accused of breaching standards relating to authority, respect and courtesy as well as discreditable conduct.

The hearing is due to take place over four days between April 11 and April 14.

The panel will be led by a legally qualified chair, who is assisted by an officer of superintendent rank and an independent lay person.

The hearing will take place at Cumbria Police HQ at Penrith from 10am.

The case will be held in public due to new legislation introduced in 2015.

Misconduct hearings should be held in public to improve transparency and accountability, police say.

Explaining the hearing, Cumbria Police said: "A misconduct hearing takes place when we believe someone employed by us has breached the standards of professional behaviour.

"At the hearing, the facts of the case will be presented and the officer involved will have the opportunity to explain their conduct and the circumstances surrounding the allegation.

"We hold some misconduct hearings and special case hearings in public."

According to Cumbria Police, seven officers have been found to have committed gross misconduct since 2019, the furthest back public records go.