Met Police Officer Sacked for Running Secret Coffee Business on Full Pay

PC Stanley Kennett, a 31-year-old Metropolitan Police officer, has been dismissed for gross misconduct. He ran an unauthorised coffee business while suspended for a full day. A tribunal ruled his actions breached police standards. 

Kennet was suspended in October 2023. He applied for permission to start The Coffee Cycle on April 23, 2024. The Met Police rejected his request a week later. He ignored the denial. By September 2025, he continued to manage the business. The Coffee Cycle operated from a bike shop in Storrington, West Sussex. It sold coffee, pastries, and catered events. 

Companies House lists Kennett as a director. The firm was incorporated on April 1, 2025. He gave it a director’s loan and hired staff. Kennett promoted it on social media. 

Commander Andy Brittain chaired the misconduct hearing on February 12, 2026. He called it a “sophisticated operation.” Britain said, “This was not simply a volunteering opportunity.” He noted Kennett’s heavy involvement at all points. 

Kennett admitted to running the business. His representatives, PS Nicci Searle, argued it was simple misconduct. The panel disagreed. They found gross misconduct proven on the balance of probabilities. 

The panel dismissed Kennett without notice. They placed him on the College of Policing’s barred list. This bars him from UK policing roles. 

Kennett knew the rules. He received his full salary during the suspension. His actions risked bringing the Met Police into disrepute, the ruling stated. Brittain added, “PC Kennett was responsible for his own actions.” 

This case highlights strict rules for suspended officers. They must avoid unauthorised work. The Met aims to uphold public trust. 

Similar incidents occurred. On the same day, ex-DC Sean Brierley faced gross misconduct for drinking on duty. Firearms Sgt Matt Skelt was sacked earlier for running a pizza business while sick. 

The Coffee Cycle’s website shows active promotion. It offered bike shop tie-ins. Kennett’s persistence shocked the tribunal. The Metropolitan Police stressed professional standards. Officers on suspension get pay but face limits. Breaches lead to dismissal.

Police reaction focuses on accountability. Taxpayers fund suspensions. Unauthorised businesses waste resources. Kennett’s dismissal ends his police career. The barred list ensures no return. It sends a clear message to officers. 

The hearing outcome was public. It details the breach fully. The Met Police released the ruling promptly. This event joins recent scandals. It prompts reviews of suspension oversight. Commander Brittain’s words underscore the severity of the breach.

The Met continues misconduct probes. Standards remain high amid scrutiny. Kennett’s case closes one chapter.