A Metropolitan Police officer faces dismissal after driving to Feltham Police Station without a valid UK licence or insurance, citing the need to arrive on time.

Details of the Breach

PC Russel Dcosta insisted he had no other transport options, yet evidence shows he resided near a train station and bus stops in Slough, providing viable routes to Hounslow. Line managers had previously warned him against driving following checks in March 2025 that confirmed his lack of licence and insurance.

Dcosta repeated the violation on May 17, leading to a conviction at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court.

Personal Background and Defence

The married father of two acknowledged breaching professional s, describing it as a lapse in judgment. He had served in a volume crime unit, where his caseload dropped from 150 to 26 investigations, and aspired to join the CID. Dcosta joined the force in 2023, successfully completing his policing degree and probationary period.

He supports his banker wife, two children, and sends funds to India for his mother’s medical expenses. At the gross misconduct hearing held at Sutton Police Station on February 13, Dcosta submitted a 10-page collection of character references, advocating for a final written warning.

Panel’s Decision

Commander Andy Brittain dismissed Dcosta without notice, stating: “PC Dcosta knew, had been told and confirmed that he understood what the right thing was, but did the opposite. Police officers are expected to be even more scrupulous in their observance of the law than members of the public. PC Dcosta fell far short of that expectation. The public expect police officers to uphold the law rather than breach the law.”