Cop sacked for assaulting fellow officer whilst off-duty in Croydon

A ex-police officer has been sacked after assaulting a fellow officer whilst off-duty in Croydon.

Former PC Melissa Sanchez Marulanda struck an officer across the face twice as they tried to enter a property she was in.

The 29-year-old former probationary officer was dismissed without notice following an accelerated misconduct hearing which concluded yesterday, May 18.

She was found to have breached the standards of professional behaviour in respect of ‘discreditable conduct’.

Police had attended an address in Croydon on July 8, last year, after receiving a silent emergency call.

On their arrival they met former PC Sanchez Marulanda – who was off duty – and two other people.

An officer explained that they needed to enter the address to ensure the welfare of those who were there but former PC Sanchez Marulanda refused.

The officers attempted to enter but were pushed and the former PC struck one of them in the face on two occasions.

She was arrested and immediately suspended from duty.

On July 9, she was charged with assault on an emergency worker.

Former PC Sanchez Marulanda attended Croydon Crown Court on Wednesday, May 12, and was sentenced to one-year imprisonment, suspended for one year, ordered to wear an electronic tag for three months and was issued with a fine.

She had pleaded guilty to an earlier hearing to assaulting an emergency services worker.

Chief Inspector Matt Cox from the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards said: “Although PC Melissa Sanchez Marulanda was only weeks into her career as a Metropolitan Police officer, her behaviour displayed none of the qualities we expect in our officers.

“A lack of self-control; ill-discipline and a disregard for the law.

“She pleaded guilty to assaulting a colleague, and has now had to face the consequences of her actions; and an end to her policing career.”

Former PC Sanchez Marulanda will now be added to the College of Policing barred list.