A Metropolitan Police officer has been jailed after pleading guilty to sharing sexually explicit images with a suspect while on duty, in a case that has further tarnished the reputation of the force.
PC James Ankrett, 34, was sentenced to 16 months in prison at Woolwich Crown Court after admitting to misconduct in public office. The court heard how Ankrett used Google Chat to send inappropriate photos to a woman he had arrested in Bristol.
Details of the Case
The shocking misconduct unfolded after Ankrett, who was stationed in London, arrested the woman during an unrelated incident. Following the arrest, he initiated contact via Google Chat, where he sent explicit images of himself.
The victim, disturbed by the officer's actions, reported the incident, leading to an internal investigation by the Metropolitan Police’s Directorate of Professional Standards.
Court Proceedings
During the hearing, prosecutors described Ankrett's actions as a "clear abuse of power" and a "betrayal of public trust." Judge Sarah Munro KC condemned the officer’s behaviour, stating that it undermined confidence in law enforcement.
Ankrett, who had served with the Met for eight years, was dismissed from the force following the investigation.
Impact on Public Trust
This case adds to a growing list of misconduct scandals involving Metropolitan Police officers, raising further concerns about accountability within the service. A spokesperson for the Met acknowledged the damage caused, vowing to root out such behaviour.
"Officers who betray the trust placed in them have no place in the Metropolitan Police," the spokesperson said.
