On 9 June 1851 Mr Steer arrested James Johnson, a member of the Teetotal Society of Hastings, for being drunk and disorderly in a public place.
On locking him up in a police cell, Steer gave him bread and water, and returned a short time later to check on him to find that he had hung himself.
Martin led the force until 1872 when he died after a short illness, and was succeeded by John Moulden Wilshire, another London officer.
In 1922, Harry Reeve was forced to retire owing to ill health, with reports he had become sick from the "strain caused by war work.
Lack of evidence meant that no charges or disciplinary action was taken against Beesley, who became infuriated at the claims and started a personal vendetta against his accuser.
Beesley reported the officer for misuse of a police car and for making fraudulent entries in a log book, allegations which were not upheld by the Committee.
In 1935, Police Constable Eric Morgan was, although unknown at the time, committing crimes of theft and burglary whilst on duty.
[5] As a consequence of the accusations, and Beesley's departure, the Watch Committee required a new Chief Constable to lead the force and chair an inquiry.
[6] Jenkins' investigation was assisted by two officers from Scotland Yard, and at its conclusion five constables made written statements admitting their involvement and were dismissed.
Chief Constable Jenkins led the force from 1941 to 1943 and brought his experience of collaborating with the Auxiliary Fire Service and Home Guard with the Penzance Borough Police to his new command.
[8] At the Town Hall on Rendezvous Street, a "Report & Control Centre" was set up in the basement and was run by the police, fire and air raid precaution services.