Ex-Cop Staff Arrested Over Extreme Right Wing Tweets
William Loyd-Hughes, a former West Yorkshire Police staff member, was snared by Counter Terrorism Policing North East last September. The probe was triggered by a referral from West Yorkshire Police to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
Disguised Twitter Accounts Spread Racist Hate
Back in August and September 2022, Loyd-Hughes hid behind spoof Twitter profiles to push far-right extremist views. He also used a racist hashtag to blast his dangerous propaganda to a larger audience online.
Guilty Plea Over Terrorism and Communications Offences
He admitted to publishing images supporting the banned Ulster Defence Association, breaking the Terrorism Act 2000. Loyd-Hughes also pleaded guilty to improper use of electronic communications under the Communications Act 2003.
Police Boss Slams Extremism in Service
Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said: “Sharing extremist views and propaganda are serious offences and we will always seek to prosecute those responsible, irrespective of their occupation or background.
“This is particularly important when those involved occupy positions of trust. There is no place for such deeply offensive views anywhere in our society, but particularly in policing.
“Tackling extremist material online is an essential part of protecting the public and preventing offences that may encourage extremism, fuel community tensions, or motivate others to act.
“We urge anyone who sees extremist content online to report their concerns by completing the confidential form at www.gov.uk/ACT, or by calling the police in confidence on 0800 789321.”
Resignation and Ongoing Misconduct Probe
Loyd-Hughes quit his West Yorkshire Police post on March 16, 2023. However, misconduct proceedings have now resumed locally despite his resignation.
