Police Officer from Channel 4’s Hunted Suspended Over Sexist Claims

A police officer featured on Channel 4’s reality series Hunted has been suspended pending an investigation into allegations of making sexist remarks towards female colleagues. Sergeant Shazad Sadiq, a temporary inspector with Durham Constabulary, faces accusations that could amount to gross misconduct, including comments directed at junior female officers.

The suspension, which began in February 2025, followed complaints that Sadiq made inappropriate remarks to three female Police Community Support Officers. He allegedly suggested he did not expect them to have accounts on OnlyFans, a subscription-based platform often associated with adult content. According to reports, the women felt singled out, as male colleagues were not subjected to similar comments.

In addition to the allegations about OnlyFans, Sadiq is accused of making a derogatory comment towards a female constable, allegedly gesturing at her body while stating she could not “hide her sexuality.” Further accusations include suggesting that the same officer could relate to a vulnerable woman struggling with her sexuality by acting as a “motherly figure.”

Moreover, Sadiq reportedly denied this officer the opportunity to pursue a Taser training course, claiming her “hormones needed to settle” following a period of parental leave. The ongoing investigation by the Professional Standards Department of Durham Constabulary has yet to reach a conclusion, with Sadiq remaining suspended during this process.

Sadiq, who has served as a police officer for 28 years, previously worked with the Metropolitan Police in London before joining Durham Constabulary in 2001. His background includes serving as general secretary of the National Black Police Association and chairing the Durham Ethnic Minority Support Association. In 2021, he began appearing on Hunted, where contestants attempt to evade capture by law enforcement personnel over a 21-day period for a chance to win a share of £100,000.

Durham Constabulary confirmed that the officer’s suspension is due to ongoing inquiries regarding potential breaches of conduct standards. A spokesperson stated, “In February, a sergeant was suspended pending an investigation into allegations surrounding potential breaches of standards of behaviour. That investigation remains ongoing.”

Channel 4 has not provided any comments on the situation. The case has raised significant concerns regarding workplace conduct and the treatment of female officers within law enforcement.