Police Sergeant Resigns After Vandalizing Cancer Patient’s Wigs

A police sergeant has faced significant repercussions after vandalizing property belonging to a cancer patient in a calculated act of cruelty. On December 19, 2025, during a disciplinary hearing, it was revealed that James Evans, a 34-year-old officer from Manchester, deliberately destroyed two wigs essential for the victim’s cancer treatment, alongside several personal items valued at approximately £3,000.

The incident occurred while Evans was off duty. In addition to the wigs, he vandalized personal belongings including underwear, a laptop, a signed book by former motorbike racer Guy Martin, and a lace hair accessory intended for a wedding. Such actions were described as “deliberate and calculated” by the Chief Constable, Sir Stephen Watson, during the hearing.

Last July, Evans pleaded guilty to a charge of criminal damage at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court. He received a 12-month community order, which included 80 hours of unpaid work and 15 rehabilitation activity days. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £1,000 in compensation to the victim, referred to as Person A, for the distress caused by his actions.

Accountability and Consequences

Evans resigned from his position within Greater Manchester Police just one day before the conclusion of the disciplinary hearing, which ultimately found him guilty of gross misconduct. He chose not to attend the hearing and did not provide representation, leading to criticism from Chief Constable Watson.

Watson emphasized the importance of accountability within the police force, stating that such misconduct undermines public trust. He noted, “The purpose of the hearings is to sustain public confidence in the police.” He added that Evans’ actions were not just criminal but also morally reprehensible, designed to inflict psychological harm on the victim.

The determination of gross misconduct was based on the seriousness of Evans’ actions, especially considering his rank as a sergeant, which carries a greater responsibility to act as a role model. “His training and experience ought to have served as a warning to him that his actions were patently unlawful, ill-judged and indefensible,” Watson remarked.

In addition to his legal penalties, Evans’ name has been added to the College of Policing Barred List, effectively banning him from any future role within law enforcement. This decision serves as a clear message about the standards expected from individuals in positions of authority and the consequences of failing to uphold those standards.

Victims of such acts often experience profound emotional effects, and the case highlights the need for law enforcement personnel to be held accountable for their actions, especially when those actions have a devastating impact on vulnerable individuals.