A FORMER Dorset Police officer who pursued an intimate relationship with a vulnerable domestic abuse victim has been found guilty of gross misconduct following an accelerated public hearing.

Held at Dorset Police Headquarters in Winfrith on Tuesday 19 May, the hearing concluded that former PC James McClements had seriously breached professional standards during his time with the force.

It was alleged that between November 30, 2023, and November 6, 2024, McClements engaged in an intimate relationship with a woman who was a victim of domestic abuse, despite his professional position.

The hearing found his behaviour to be inappropriate and unprofessional.

McClements resigned from Dorset Police in April 2025, but the case continued.

Earlier this year, on Friday. April 10, he pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office and is due to be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on June 16.

The misconduct panel found he had breached standards relating to discreditable conduct, authority, respect and courtesy, and duties and responsibilities.

Had he still been serving, the panel concluded he would have been dismissed from the force.

He has also been placed on the policing barred list, preventing him from working in policing again.

Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell said: “This former officer pursued a sexual relationship with a vulnerable woman who was putting her trust in the police and this trust was broken.

“I want to make it abundantly clear that this is not acceptable and this former officer is not representative of the force.

“We have a duty to always adhere to the highest standards of behaviour and integrity and protect vulnerable members of our communities. Unfortunately, McClements fell well below these standards.”

She added that Dorset Police’s Professional Standards Department had carried out a “robust investigation” to ensure McClements was held accountable.

The force has encouraged anyone concerned about the conduct of serving officers or staff to report concerns through the independent Police Anti-Corruption and Abuse Reporting Service, run by Crimestoppers.