AUSTRALIA - Ex-cop accused of illegal use of police database

OFF THE WIRE
A hearing has resumed for a former police officer accused of improperly using the state's police data base.

Lauren Conte, 29, is accused of using the police LEAP database inappropriately while she was a police officer at Camperdown, in western Victoria, in 2009.

The court heard yesterday that Conte used the system to access information on a senior bikie gang member who she had formerly had a relationship with.

This morning the court heard evidence from two senior police officers.

Senior Sergeant Stephen Thompson said officers were required to consult their supervisor if there was any potential conflict in relation to their use of the database.

The court also heard evidence from Sargeant Ian Douglas of the police ethical standards division who said phone records show there were more than 60 calls and texts between Conte and bikie gang member Paul Peterson in late 2009.

Police told the court the searches were not required as part of Conte's day-to-day duties.

In his closing argument, defence lawyer Neil Hutton said there are a number of legitimate reasons for police to do background checks.

Yesterday Magistrate Peter Cousins threw out an application by both the prosecution and the defence to have Conte sent into a diversion program instead of continuing through the court system.

Magistrate Cousins said that would send an irresponsible message to other serving police officers.

Conte faces a maximum penalty of two years in jail and a $24,000 fine.

She has pleaded not guilty.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/05/25/3226113.htm?site=melbourne