Cop Caught Misusing Police Databases in Gross Misconduct Scandal
DC Christopher Leslie has been slammed for breaching honesty, integrity, confidentiality, and orders. His actions were ruled as Gross Misconduct during a disciplinary hearing.
15 Illegal Searches Exposed
Between 2008 and 2014, Leslie carried out 15 unofficial searches on police databases without any policing purpose. He also failed to report a notifiable association to the Professional Standards Department, breaking crucial protocol.
Panel Issues Final Written Warning
On 29 October 2020, a misconduct panel chaired by Darren Snow confirmed Leslie’s actions seriously violated professional standards. Despite the severity, Leslie received only a final written warning after mitigation was considered.
Deputy Chief Constable Issues Warning
“When, on one of the very small number of occasions, an officer falls below the standards expected of all our staff we will address it, as we have in this case,” said Deputy Chief Constable Pippa Mills.
“All staff must complete a yearly GDPR course to keep data protection knowledge sharp. They’re regularly reminded to only access data with a legitimate policing purpose.”
“This case also highlights the importance of declaring any notifiable associations promptly.”
