Three police staff from Comet country have left Herts Constabulary after gross misconduct investigations were launched in the past two years, it has emerged.

Figures obtained under the Freedom of Information Act revealed one employee, based in Letchworth GC, resigned after allegations relating to honesty and integrity and discreditable conduct.

Another, based in Stevenage, resigned after two allegations relating to honesty and integrity.

A third, based in Hitchin, was dismissed without notice over an allegation relating to authority, respect and courtesy.

A Hitchin detective constable was given a final written warning for discreditable conduct.

Across Hertfordshire, 31 gross misconduct investigations have been held in the past two years, resulting in four staff being dismissed and a further 12 resigning.

Deputy Chief Constable Andy Adams said: “We’re a public sector organisation and we don’t want people who don’t share our values.

“We’ll weed them out and dispense with them if necessary.”

Herts Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd said: “Just one case like this is too many but we have to be realistic and acknowledge that on extremely rare occasions officers have been guilty of misconduct.

“That should not affect our understanding that Hertfordshire’s police force is an extremely effective one, where officers work to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.”