THE dismissal of a PC who used racist language while on a night out will stand and she will not be returning to the force, police have confirmed.

Northumbria Police has successfully challenged the decision of a Police Appeal Tribunal which overturned the dismissal of Katie Barratt.

The PC was dismissed at a misconduct hearing last year after she used racist language while off-duty.

However, the officer appealed the decision and was reinstated by the independent appeal tribunal in March.

Northumbria Police in turn applied for judicial review to challenge that outcome.

Today the judge, who heard the case at the High Court in Leeds last month, has ruled in favour of the force. This means that the officer’s dismissal stands and she will not be returning to the Force.

In the judgment, he wrote: “In my judgment, the only reasonable decision on the facts of this case was dismissal.”

He added the misconduct panel was right to take the view that retaining the officer “would seriously undermine the trust and confidence the public have in the organisation and jeopardise the reputation of the Police Service.”

Northumbria Police Deputy Chief Constable Debbie Ford said: “I want to be absolutely clear that there is no room for racist language in our society – it is completely unacceptable.

“The language used by the officer that night was abhorrent and undermines the values of our organisation.

“This was recognised by a colleague who rightly came forward to report the matter, further reflecting the culture within the Force where people can have the confidence to speak up and challenge unacceptable behaviour.

“We were extremely disappointed by the appeal tribunal’s decision to reinstate the officer and it was important and right that we challenged this position and I therefore welcome the latest ruling.

“I want to take this opportunity to reassure the public that the actions of this individual are in no way representative of the unwavering professionalism and commitment shown by our officers and staff every single day.”

The force had previously been granted a court order to support its position that the officer should not return to work during these latest proceedings or receive the back salary the tribunal directed be paid.