Public notification of misconduct hearing for former PS Martin Coughlan

Notice of a misconduct hearing to be held in public

Date: 2 September 2026

Time: 10:00

Location: Sussex Police Headquarters, Church Lane, Lewes, BN7 2DZ

It is alleged that PS Coughlan gave dishonest information to his line manager regarding the hospital appointment of their partner in order to obtain dependants' leave.

During a criminal investigation where PS Coughlan was a suspect and asked about vehicle ownership he gave a dishonest reply stating that he had no vehicle. It was found that at that time, PS Coughlan had been leasing and using a vehicle.

Whilst under criminal investigation PS Coughlan also breached police bail conditions on a number of occasions by maintaining contact with another individual. He also allowed this individual to breach their police bail conditions by continued contact and presence at his address.

The allegations are a breach of the following Standards of Professional Behaviour;

Discreditable Conduct – Police officers will behave in a manner, whether on or off duty, which does not bring discredit on the police service or undermine public confidence in policing.

Honesty and Integrity – Police officers, act with integrity and do not compromise or abuse their position

Duties and Responsibilities - Police Officers are diligent in the exercise of their duties and responsibilities. Police Officers have a responsibility to give appropriate cooperation during investigations, inquiries and formal proceedings, participating openly and professionally in line with the expectations of a police officer when identified as a witness.

Conditions of attendance

Members of the media and public may attend subject to the following conditions: 

• Before completing an application to attend, please read the conditions of entry to understand what may be required of you on the day. You must confirm that you have read and agree to abide by the conditions of entry. 

The conditions include that: 

• The taking of photographs and the use of film or sound recording equipment during the hearing, except for official use, is prohibited. 

• There may be parts of the hearing which are held in private session; if that is the case, any accredited member of the media or public attending the hearing will be asked to leave during the private session and will be informed by the Hearings Officer when they can return. 

Attendance by members of the media 

• Any accredited member of the media attending the hearing must produce valid identification. 

The media may make written representations upon the reporting restrictions to the Chair by 2 September. Such representations are to be sent to  [email protected]

How to request to attend this hearing.