WYP officer "dragged wife by the hair and threw her to floor" in an argument over his mobile phone

West Yorkshire officer facing misconduct hearing following an off-duty incident in July 2020.

A police officer is facing a gross misconduct hearing over claims that he dragged his wife by the hair and threw her to the floor.

Police Constable Matthew Harper of West Yorkshire Police is alleged to have become involved in a verbal argument with his wife during which she got hold of his phone and locked herself in the bathroom, it is claimed.

It is claimed he used physical force to break down the locked door, pursued his wife and then allegedly assaulted her. Details of the allegations have been published on https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/ ahead of a gross misconduct hearing due to be heard from June 28th to July 1st.

The details state: "It is alleged that whilst off duty on 11th July 2020, Police Constable Harper became involved in a verbal argument with his wife, during which she gained possession of his telephone.

"He ran after his wife until she went into the bathroom, closing and locking the door behind her. He used physical force to break down the locked door to enter the bathroom. Upon gaining access, he tried to take the telephone from his wife, and when she left the bathroom, he pursued her.

"It is alleged Police Constable Harper assaulted his wife. He:

1. Dragged her by the hair.

2. Threw her to the floor and pushed her down whilst on the floor.

3. Ripped her clothing.

"During the struggle, a 999 call to the emergency services connected, following which Police Constable Harper terminated the call. Upon a call back from the emergency services operator, Police Constable Harper answered the telephone and said that everything was fine and that the 999 calls had been a pocket dial by accident.

"Police Constable Harper's conduct as alleged breached the Standards of Professional Behaviour relating to Discreditable Conduct. If proved, his conduct is so severe that his dismissal will be justified."