Trainee Leyland police officer caught with thousands of indecent images

Preston Magistrates' Court — Preston Magistrates’ Court. Pic: Blog Preston

A trainee police officer was caught with thousands of indecent images of children.

Elliot Garstang was training to become an officer with Lancashire Constabulary but was instead arrested by the same force. A spokesperson said the arrest came after “information came to light about concerning material being downloaded on his electronic devices”.

Garstang, of Welsby Road in Leyland, was immediately suspended when arrested and the force said he had not been assigned to a division or had any contact with the public. The 22-year-old quit the force during the course of the investigation and a misconduct hearing concluded he would have been sacked anyway.

That hearing took place in January but can only now be reported following the conclusion of the criminal investigation. Garstang, went before magistrates on July 17 and was given a three-year community order and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order lasting ten years. He was also made subject of notification requirements – more commonly known as the Sex Offenders Register – for 10 years.

Det Supt Zoë Mainey, Head of our Professional Standards Department, said: “Garstang’s detestable behaviour has no place in Lancashire Constabulary. Cases of this nature are rare and appalling. If and when they do come to light the force will act very quickly to prevent any risk to the public and ensure that justice is delivered quickly.

“When Garstang’s offending came to light, he was quickly arrested and suspended from all duties. A robust investigation was then undertaken which secured the evidence that led to his conviction and dismissal from the service.”

Anyone with concerns about the behaviour of Lancashire police officers and staff can email hq.psd.acu@lancashire.police.uk. You can also anonymously report any concerns via CrimeStoppers on 08000850000.

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