A police officer lost his job after driving 134 mph during a car chase. His actions led to his resignation and barring.
The incident happened on August 5, 2023. Wood sped after a suspected stolen car that West Mercia Police were already chasing. He drove at almost double the speed limit, putting other drivers in danger.
They suspended Wood after the incident, and he resigned from the force last October. The misconduct hearing occurred on March 18 and took place at police headquarters.
The panel decided Wood was guilty, and they would have fired him if he hadn’t quit. His name went on the police barred list, preventing him from future police work.
The deputy chief constable commented on Wood’s actions, saying his behavior was very irresponsible and put other drivers’ lives at risk.
Wood denied being in a pursuit, claiming he was a safety vehicle instead. The denial showed disrespect for safety rules that protect the public.
The deputy chief hopes people feel reassured that dishonest officers face strong action. Their actions posed a big risk to public safety.
Wood can’t work in policing for five years, and he might never work as a police officer again as his name is now on the barred list.