Police officer, 44, of nearly 20 years dies while on bail after being arrested for sending sensitive information

The Sun

6 days ago

A POLICE officer who served in the force for almost 20 years has suddenly died while on bail after being arrested.
PC Claire Browne, 44, had been arrested following a probe into the sending of sensitive police information from her work email to her personal account.
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The "much-loved" cop - who was based in Southampton and had worked for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary since 2006 - had also been served notice of a gross misconduct investigation into her "honesty and integrity".
Claire was found by colleagues at a home in Netley Abbey, close to Southampton, after concerns for her welfare.
Tragically, despite the best efforts of emergency crews, the cop's life could not be saved.
Her death has since sparked an independent review of the force's Professional Standards Department.
Claire's family released an emotional tribute, saying: "It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our much-loved Claire.
"She was a dedicated officer who served the force and the community diligently and compassionately for 19 years.
"Claire will be sorely missed by her many friends and colleagues.
"Our family is devastated and we ask for understanding, kindness and privacy during this incredibly difficult time."
Claire is the second serving police officer to have died while under investigation by Hampshire Constabulary's Professional Standards Department.
PC Alex Hazlett-Beard, who had been a part of the same police force, died last February while under investigation for misconduct.
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Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones has now ordered an independent review of the department which investigates officers' conduct.
She said: "Recent events have understandably raised questions and concerns among officers, staff, and the wider public about how the force handles internal investigations.
"While the force has appropriately referred this matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), I believe it is also necessary to examine more broadly how the Professional Standards Department operates, particularly in terms of support provided to officers under investigation and the culture of those investigations."
Jones continued: "This review will not interfere with any ongoing investigations or statutory processes but will help the force and me as commissioner to better understand whether the current systems are appropriate, proportionate, and supportive."
'WELL LOVED AND RESPECTED OFFICER'
Acting Chief Constable Sam de Reya also paid tribute to the "well loved and respected officer".
She said: "Everyone is extremely shocked and saddened by Claire's death and our thoughts remain with her family, friends and colleagues.
"Claire was a well loved and respected officer and colleague who had worked in many different departments and teams throughout her policing career.
"She will be missed by us all."
The police boss also recorded a video message for staff across the force that outlined where support could be accessed.
Hampshire Constabulary has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), following the tragic death.
A spokesperson for the force said: "Officers responded to a concern for welfare call at an address in Netley Abbey, at 11am, on Monday 7 July.
"Upon arrival officers discovered a 44-year-old woman requiring medical attention.
"Sadly, despite the best efforts of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the address.
"The death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file is being prepared for the coroner."