Employee of force faces trust probe

A police employee from Shropshire has been arrested on suspicion of committing an abuse of the public's trust, it was revealed today.

The staff member, who has not been named, was arrested last week after allegedly committing misconduct in a public office.

West Mercia Police spokeswoman Rachel Anstee said no charges had yet been brought against the individual who had been released on police bail pending inquiries.

Under Common Law the offence involves a "public officer" acting in a way in which he "wilfully neglects to perform his duty and/or wilfully misconducts himself to such a degree as to amount to an abuse of the public's trust".

It is punishable by a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Police today refused to give the sex of the employee or reveal whether a police officer or member of police staff was involved.

Ms Anstee said: "An employee of West Mercia Constabulary was arrested on November 25 in Shropshire on suspicion of misconduct in a public office.

"The police staff member was taken to a police station in Worcestershire for questioning by officers.

"Inquiries are ongoing at this time. West Mercia Constabulary is committed to ensuring all employees uphold the highest standards of integrity."

The Crown Prosecution Service, which issued guidance on the offence last year, describes misconduct in public office as "a very serious (offence), indictable only".

Anyone charged with the offence has a defence if they can show they had a reasonable excuse or justification, including that they were acting in the public interest.