The misconduct hearing for former Police Federation chairman John Apter is currently underway at Hampshire Constabulary's headquarters in Eastleigh, where he faces allegations of gross misconduct.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that Apter allegedly made inappropriate comments about wanting to 'comfort' Lissie Harper in his hotel room just before she was to receive a posthumous award for her late husband.

This remark was made the night before the award ceremony, which was an emotionally charged event for Lissie Harper, widow of fallen officer PC Andrew Harper.

The tribunal characterized Apter's comments as 'sexist and derogatory,' noting that they elicited an 'awkward' reaction from his colleagues.

In addition to the comment about Lissie Harper, Apter faces multiple allegations including groping a female constable during a night out and making inappropriate remarks to a pregnant colleague.

Witnesses testified that Apter inappropriately touched a junior constable, identified as Female A, during a night out in December 2021, further highlighting a pattern of misconduct.

Apter has denied all allegations, asserting that his actions were misinterpreted and claiming he was merely scratching the back of a colleague after she joked about it being itchy.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is also investigating the allegations against Apter, who has previously called for the eradication of misogyny within the police force.

Despite his past advocacy against sexism, Apter's alleged behavior has raised concerns about a culture of hypocrisy within the Police Federation.

The hearing has drawn attention to the broader issues of sexism and misconduct within the police, with former communications officer Jamie Simpson highlighting these cultural problems.

Lissie Harper, who was awarded an MBE in 2022 for her campaign to strengthen laws in memory of her husband, has criticized Apter's comments as 'highly inappropriate' for someone in his position.

While the Crown Prosecution Service decided not to pursue criminal charges against Apter earlier this year, the misconduct hearing continues to address the serious allegations against him.