Accelerated misconduct hearing for PC Ashley Hardy-Towndrow
Notice of a hearing to be held in public
Name of the officer concerned: PC Ashley Hardy-Towndrow
Date: 28 October 2026
Time: 9am
Location: Empress State Building, Empress Approach, Lillie Road, West Brompton, SW6 1TR
PC Ashley Hardy-Towndrow, based in North West Command Unit, will answer allegations that their conduct amounted to a breach of the Standards of Professional Behaviour, in respect of:
- Authority, Respect and Courtesy
- Use of Force
- Discreditable Conduct
- Orders and Instructions
During a vehicle stop that resulted in an arrest for drink-driving, PC Hardy-Towndrow was captured on BWV using aggressive and discourteous language during a heated exchange with the male.
The footage further shows PC Hardy-Towndrow pushing the handcuffed male in the chest and grabbing him by the throat or upper chest area, which is alleged to have been an unnecessary and disproportionate use of force.
The BWV footage also appears to show PC Hardy-Towndrow intentionally deactivating his camera during the incident, with his actions clearly recorded as he manually switched the device off.
As a result of that stated herein, if proven, PC Hardy-Towndrow's conduct individually or cumulatively amounts to gross misconduct, and his dismissal may be justified.
The identity of victims and witnesses will be protected during the hearing as appropriate.
If you wish to apply to attend the hearing you must book no later than 1pm the previous working day. This is to allow for sufficient time to process the application. Any requests received after this time will be unable to be processed in time for the hearing and therefore will be rejected.
Please ensure that you have read the conditions of entry prior to booking.