SERVING OFFICER Cop Charged Over Child Abuse Image Scandal

A serving police constable has been charged with multiple sexual offences involving indecent images of children.

Michael Elmer Arrested in Shocking Probe

Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that Michael Elmer, 36, a Bristol-based officer, was arrested in May 2025 by their Internet Child Abuse Team after critical intelligence came to light. Today (Thursday 29 January), Elmer faced charges including:

• Three counts of making an indecent photograph/pseudo-photograph of a child
• One count of distributing an indecent photograph/pseudo-photograph of a child
• One count of sharing an intimate image for sexual gratification

He appeared at Bristol Magistrates’ Court this afternoon and was released on conditional bail. Elmer is due back at Exeter Crown Court on Friday, 27 February.

Force Launches Professional Conduct Probe

Avon and Somerset’s Professional Standards Department is conducting a separate inquiry into breaches of professional behaviou,r but insists criminal proceedings are the priority.

Deputy Chief Constable Reacts to Serious Allegations

“An investigation was immediately launched after the information surfaced, leading to Elmer’s suspension in May 2025,” said Deputy Chief Constable Jon Reilly.

More from Avon and Somerset Police

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• Nursery Worker Jailed for 30 Years Over Sickening Abuse of Toddlers
• Cop Sacked Over Picture Frame Laptop Trick
• Attempted Murder Shocker Near Bristol Airport
• Christian Pastor Freed on Bail but Banned from Bristol City Centre Over Christmas
• Police Officer Busted for Child Sex Crimes

More from Avon and Somerset Police

View all Avon and Somerset Police coverage

• Man, 25, Bailed After Teen Girl Attacked in North Somerset Village
• Nursery Worker Jailed for 30 Years Over Sickening Abuse of Toddlers
• Cop Sacked Over Picture Frame Laptop Trick
• Attempted Murder Shocker Near Bristol Airport
• Christian Pastor Freed on Bail but Banned from Bristol City Centre Over Christmas
• Police Officer Busted for Child Sex Crimes

More from Avon and Somerset Police

View all Avon and Somerset Police coverage

• Man, 25, Bailed After Teen Girl Attacked in North Somerset Village
• Nursery Worker Jailed for 30 Years Over Sickening Abuse of Toddlers
• Cop Sacked Over Picture Frame Laptop Trick
• Attempted Murder Shocker Near Bristol Airport
• Christian Pastor Freed on Bail but Banned from Bristol City Centre Over Christmas
• Police Officer Busted for Child Sex Crimes