Think your example is stretching it, isn’t it
@starr shot ?
The CoP is guidance, down to an individual, leader, organisation to chose to follow it and most importantly - interpret it. WiltsPol have clearly chosen to interpret it that the appointment fell into this guidance.
TBH, it’s more about being aware and thinking ahead and not placing yourself in the position to be seen to be impartial. Used to be called common sense, which seemed to diminish in recruits over the years of my service. It’s a tightrope I tried to walk for 27 years. I didn’t get it right every time - no one who carries a warrant card does - but did try to use my head.
Having any relationship (real or perceived), with an organisation that has been excluded from its sports association is not what I would suggest is making a sensible decision based on common sense - then having a light bulb moment and thinking, I’ll be a rural crime officer???
You can think it, participate if you have assessed the potential consequences, but FFS don’t shout about it by posting pictures of you riding with the Hunt in question, and expect zero fall out.
Simply put, as a police officer, doing things that can be perceived to be partial often has the same effect as an actual bias. It’s not always right, not received well by, or often fair on the person subject to the accusation - but that’s the nature of the job. Your personal life IS CURTAILED by being a police officer. That’s part of the gig.
I’m no fan of the CoP or it’s predecessor in terms of setting standards, but they do sometimes get it right. In this case, their guidance, on the balance of probabilities, just scrapes a pass.
