​POLICE officers serving in Kent have been convicted of criminal offences including affray, possession of firearms, misconduct in public office and drink driving.

Records released by Kent Police under the Freedom of Information act show that in just five years from 2006-2010, 69 individuals employed by the force were arrested for crimes ranging from using a mobile phone while driving to perverting the course of justice.

In 27 of these 69 cases a conviction followed, while in a number others the individual involved received either a conditional discharge or a caution.

The information detailing arrests of police employees, which was first made public last month, stretches back to 1992 and includes a total of 249 cases involving police officers, volunteer special constables and civilian staff.

Notable cases among the 69 recorded from 2006-2010 include a sergeant arrested in 2008 and later jailed for a string of serious offences including false imprisonment and possession of firearms, a sergeant arrested in 2009 and later convicted of ticket touting and a constable arrested in 2006 and later jailed for perverting the course of justice.

In these three cases the officers involved were later dismissed from their positions at internal hearings.

Commenting on the newly-published information, Assistant Chief Constable Andy Adams said: "No-one is above the law and anyone who fails to uphold it must face the consequences."

But not all those found guilty of criminal offences are removed from the force – and some remain in service on the streets of the county today.

Examples of staff who remained employed by Kent Police despite brushes with the law include a constable arrested in 2009 and later fined for careless driving, a PCSO arrested in 2009 and later fined for drink driving and a sergeant arrested in 2008 and later fined for speeding.

ACC Adams said: "We expect the highest standard of behaviour and professionalism from our officers and staff both at work and in their personal lives. The vast majority of them serve Kent with the commitment and dedication our community deserves.

"Kent Police investigates every alleged offence thoroughly and will always bring criminal and disciplinary action when necessary.”