Review finds evidence of sexism and misogyny in PSNI

There is "clear evidence" of sexism and misogyny within the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and its misconduct process is "flawed", an independent review has found.

It was commissioned last year by the chief constable, Jon Boutcher, and headed by a lawyer, Rachel Langdale KC.

A 10-page summary of her review findings has been published and discussed at a meeting of the Northern Ireland Policing Board in Belfast.

The review states that while it is not possible to say how widespread sexism and misogyny is, "there must be absolute clarity about the manner in which it is tackled".

Boutcher said he accepted its conclusions and has promised "clear action".

He added: "There is no place in this organisation for any misogyny, sexism or hateful behaviour in any form.

"It is unacceptable and will not be tolerated."

Boutcher said that he has overseen 14 disciplinary hearings from 2025, many of them involving misogyny.

"In each case, the officer was dismissed without notice.

"Those who act in this way can expect to lose their jobs as a minimum."

Boutcher asked for the review to help "strengthen" the PSNI's response to domestic abuse, violence against women and girls and misogyny.

Its findings are partly based on interviews and it makes a raft of recommendations.

They include addressing delays in disciplinary proceedings "as a matter of urgency".

Powers should also be sought to discipline officers post-employment and to fast-track cases involving criminality and gross misconduct, it says.

The review states: "In short, the review has identified clear evidence of sexism and misogyny within the PSNI.

"It is not possible for us to say how widespread this is within the organisation.

"What can be stated is that wherever it is identified, there must be absolute clarity about the manner in which it is tackled.

"The misconduct process is flawed and we have highlighted issues of particular concern.

"Some of the problems arise as a result of the legislative framework and cannot be remedied by the PSNI."

The review has been published weeks after a Police Ombudsman report into "predatory behaviour" by officers who have been accused of abusing their position for sexual purposes.