“The man remains in police custody at this time. We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance.”
The statement continued: “Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court.”
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright also addressed the media, stating: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence. We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
Legal insight into the charge
Simarjot Singh Judge, Managing Partner at Judge Law, has offered further clarity on how a misconduct in public office charge could apply in this case.
“Misconduct in public office is a serious common law offence which requires prosecutors to show that a public officer deliberately breached their duty in a way that represents a serious abuse of public trust,” he explained.
“It is not enough for there to have been an error of judgment – the conduct must be wilful and sufficiently serious.”
Judge added: “If sensitive government material was shared without proper authority, the question would be whether that amounted to a deliberate breach of official duty. Prosecutors would need to establish intent, seriousness and whether the conduct crossed the threshold into criminal wrongdoing.
“An arrest under suspicion does not mean a charge has been brought, and it does not imply guilt.”
He concluded: “Police must gather and assess evidence before deciding whether the case meets the charging threshold.”
More updates are expected.
