A police officer, who spent nearly two decades on the force, has suddenly died while on bail after being arrested for sending sensitive information.
PC Claire Browne had previously been arrested following a probe into the sending of sensitive police information from her work email to her personal account.
Before her death, the 44-year-old mother had been served notice of a gross misconduct investigation into her ‘honesty and integrity’
She had worked for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Constabulary since 2006 and was based in the city of Southampton.
PC Browne was found by colleagues at a property in Netley Abbey, Hampshire on the morning of July 7 after concerns were raised for her welfare.
Despite the best efforts of emergency services, she could not be saved. Her death has since sparked an independent review of the force’s Professional Standards Department.
Her family have since released a touching tribute, saying: ‘It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our much-loved Claire.
‘She was a dedicated officer who served the force and the community diligently and compassionately for 19 years.
‘Claire will be sorely missed by her many friends and colleagues.
‘Our family is devastated and we ask for understanding, kindness and privacy during this incredibly difficult time.’
The 44-year-old is the second the second serving police officer to die whilst under investigation by Hampshire Constabulary’s Professional Standards Department.
Last February, PC Alex Hazlett-Beard who was a part of the same police force died while under investigation for misconduct.
Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones has now ordered an independent review of the department which investigates officer’s conduct.
‘Recent events have understandably raised questions and concerns among officers, staff, and the wider public about how the force handles internal investigations,’ the elected official said.
‘While the force has appropriately referred this matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), I believe it is also necessary to examine more broadly how the Professional Standards Department operates, particularly in terms of support provided to officers under investigation and the culture of those investigations.’
She continued: ‘This review will not interfere with any ongoing investigations or statutory processes but will help the force and me as commissioner to better understand whether the current systems are appropriate, proportionate, and supportive.’
Acting Chief Constable Sam de Reya also paid tribute to the ‘well loved and respected officer’.
She said: ‘Everyone is extremely shocked and saddened by Claire’s death and our thoughts remain with her family, friends and colleagues.
‘Claire was a well loved and respected officer and colleague who had worked in many different departments and teams throughout her policing career.
‘She will be missed by us all.’
The senior figure has also issued a video message to staff across the force outlining where to access support.
Hampshire Constabulary have referred themselves to police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
A spokesperson said: ‘Officers responded to a concern for welfare call at an address in Netley Abbey, at 11am, on Monday 7 July.
‘Upon arrival officers discovered a 44-year-old woman requiring medical attention. Sadly, despite the best efforts of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the address.
‘The death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file is being prepared for the coroner.
