West Yorkshire Police detention officer charged over social media posts

A West Yorkshire Police (WYP) detention officer is due to appear in court after being charged with posting grossly offensive messages on Twitter.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) directed an investigation, carried out by Counter Terrorism Policing North East, into the messages following a mandatory referral from WYP in September 2022.

The case was referred to the Crown Prosecution Service, which authorised four charges against William Loyd-Hughes.

The 26-year-old, who was based at Huddersfield Police Station, is accused of publishing images in support of a proscribed organisation, the Ulster Defence Association, contrary to the Terrorism Act 2000; and three charges under the Communications Act 2003 of sharing grossly offensive messages on Twitter.

The alleged offences are believed to have taken place in August and September 2022, while he was serving with WYP.

Loyd-Hughes, who is currently suspended by the force, is due to make his first appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 15 March.