Detective Inspector Rebecca Kalam, who joined the force in 2012, was subject to sexual harassment and discrimination while working for the police force. She was one of only seven women in a firearms team with 250 men and faced a “toxic and discriminatory” culture. During a training exercise, she was stripped down to her underwear so first aid could be given, which left her feeling “extremely uncomfortable”. On another occasion, she was told “just because you have t*ts does not mean you cannot do a press-up” as an officer pushed down on her neck with their foot. Mrs Kalam successfully sued the force for harassment, sex discrimination and victimisation, to win a total of £820,720. West Midlands Police have confirmed three serving firearms officers are currently suspended and 10 are in the disciplinary process.
In a statement following the original tribunal, Mrs Kalam said: “I had the ambition and drive to progress to the senior ranks, up to chief constable, and I was on track to do so. One of the reasons I stayed on in the department was to try and change the culture from the inside”.
West Midlands Police Deputy Chief Constable Scott Green said: “I am sorry that more was not done sooner to address the serious issues raised by Mrs Kalam and I apologise for the significant impact that these have had on her which has been highlighted during the tribunal”.
