Images of detainees shared on WhatsApp – South Yorkshire Police, November 2020

We identified conduct issues for a South Yorkshire Police (SYP) officer whilst investigating a different matter. The officer had been using WhatsApp on his personal mobile phone to share operational policing images, including pictures of detainees and vulnerable members of the public. In addition, he made inappropriate and offensive comments in relation to these images. 

Our investigation also obtained evidence indicating he had saved operational policing images and personal data on his personal mobile phone without any justification.

The officer had completed training by the force on storing and sharing operational policing material so was aware of what was expected of him as an officer.

During our investigation, we examined the officer’s mobile phone and our digital investigation specialists assisted in locating images found on the officer’s personal device. Detailed analytical work to identify any operational policing images or images of concern was completed with the assistance of the SYP. 

We also interviewed the officer to obtain his account and carefully considered the policies of South Yorkshire Police in relation to the use and sharing of operational policing material and social media. We obtained and reviewed statements from several witnesses.

Due to the fact the officer had previously served with Hertfordshire Police, the Professional Standards Departments from both forces assisted in identifying the incidents and people involved.

Our investigation concluded in February 2022.

We found the officer may have breached the standards of professional behaviour in respect of his confidentiality, integrity, and conduct.

The force agreed he had a case to answer for gross misconduct and arranged disciplinary proceedings. 

An independently chaired panel following a three-day hearing, which finished in June 2023, found gross misconduct proven against the officer.

The panel found the allegations proved and dismissed the officer without notice. 

We carefully considered whether there were any learning opportunities arising from the investigation. We make learning recommendations to improve policing and public confidence in the police complaints system, and prevent a recurrence of similar incidents. 

In this case, we did not identify any organisational learning.