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Officers enter force with far too much conviction
Terry Kirby17 Dec 2008
THEY have criminal records for drug dealing, robbery, driving offences, assault and theft. And all are serving police officers.
Essex police have admitted that 25 officers have convictions. A total of 10 offences were committed while the officers were serving and include dangerous driving, criminal damage and battery as well as common assault. The remainder were employed in the full knowledge of previous convictions.
The details were released after a Freedom of Information request.One sergeant has record for possession and supply of cannabis.
Tony Rayner, chairman of the Essex branch of the Police Federation, said: "If they have kept their jobs there were very special circumstances."
Reader views (10)
Speaking as a retired Essex Police Officer, I wouldn't be suprised if that figure was much higher. I left eight years ago.I knew then of Officers that had excess alcohol convictions as well as other driving offences and public order offences. There was also an Officer that I knew had punched a prisoner whilst he was handcuffed in the Police Station. Another Police Officer made a complaint, but because the victim wouldn't complain, the Officer was only fined by the Chief Constable. Don't forget, you only get a conviction once you are caught!
- Paul Bradford, Monflanquin, France, 17/12/2008 20:32
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no wonder the innocent taxpayer feels victimised by the police. about time the police numbers be reduced. who trusts them, only crooks.
- Danny, London, 17/12/2008 20:00
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Ok.....so I believe you, add to that they lie are devious. and more.........I write from bitter experiance
- Tony, Eastbourne East Sussex, 17/12/2008 19:56
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criminals as serving police officers?
the world has gone mad.
they have employed 15 officers with prior convictions. i am astounded.
- Stuart, kingston, 17/12/2008 18:06
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The 10 Officers who committed offences while still serving as police officers should have all been sacked. This must be the reason they are always taking the side of the criminal against the victims. they are looking after their own. No wonder we are losing confidence in the police.
- Maggie, London, 17/12/2008 17:09
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Only 25?
- P I Staker, London, 17/12/2008 17:01
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I guess they hired all the D minus students so now they are on to the ASBO crowd.
- Sierrasan, Reno, Nevada, 17/12/2008 15:44
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Some Police officers are so clueless when it comes to crime. Ex criminals would probably do a better job to be honest.
- Serox, London
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A sort of "Set a thief to catch a thief" policy?
Hmmmmmmm!!..........Just might work, seeing as how naff all are getting caught at the moment!
GERONIMO
- Geronimo, LONDON MIDDLESEX, 17/12/2008 13:48
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Some Police officers are so clueless when it comes to crime. Ex criminals would probably do a better job to be honest.
- Serox, London, 17/12/2008 10:39
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'Very special circumstances ?' Old Spanish Customs more likely. The special circumstance is that the police force puts itself and its members convenience and comfort before public safety. At one time you couldn't even join the army (the brutal and licentious soldiery) or remain in it with a criminal record. The public expects those in the office of constable to be of a higher standard, of good character and not to have a criminal record. Disgraceful
- Peter Haldane, London, 17/12/2008 10:37
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