AUSTRALIA - Detective faces charges over data leaks and steroids

OFF THE WIRE
A SUSPENDED Victorian homicide squad detective faces 27 charges of corrupt behaviour, including leaking information and possessing illegal steroids.
The detective senior constable was charged last week after an investigation lasting at least eight months, led by the Office of Police Integrity. Charges include misconduct in public office, unauthorised disclosure of information and possession of a drug of dependence.

The investigation is believed to have stemmed from allegations that he formed an inappropriate relationship with a close associate of an outlaw bikie group.

Last December, anti-corruption investigators raided at least one property linked to the detective as part of the inquiry. Investigators also searched his desk at the homicide squad and a property linked to the bikie figure.

It will be alleged that during one of the searches, the detective was found to have steroids allegedly given to him by the bikie-linked figure.

The detective is also accused of giving the figure confidential police information, including protected material from the force's database.

It is believed investigators examined allegations that the detective traded the police information for steroids, a claim he denies. He was suspended shortly after the raids.
It is understood the detective may have formed ties to the bikie figure through a keen interest in weightlifting.

He is expected to strongly contest the charges and has told supporters the allegations levelled against him are flawed or without substance and that he was unaware that a vial given to him contained steroids.

A police spokesperson said the force could not comment because it was an OPI inquiry and before the courts.
Last month, The Age revealed that anti-corruption agencies in New South Wales and Victoria had spent up to 18 months investigating leaks by law enforcement officials to outlaw bikie groups.

It was alleged that the leaks, which were were more widespread in NSW than in Victoria, had damaged organised-crime investigations by state and federal police. The Saturday Age has no evidence that the detective charged last week compromised any investigations.
The detective will appear before the Melbourne Magistrates Court on August 18.


http://www.theage.com.au/world/detective-faces-charges-over-data-leaks-and-steroids-20110805-1ifmp.html#ixzz1UHeXhubd