Ex-police officer had relationship with suspect

West Mercia Police described Nicholas Peacock's actions as "deplorable"

A former West Mercia Police officer has been jailed for misconduct after being in a sexual relationship with a suspect.

Former PC Nicholas Peacock, 40, engaged in the relationship with a suspect in an assault case he was investigating.

He failed to investigate the case fully and falsely claimed there were no witnesses, and that the victim did not support a prosecution.

Acting Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Jones said Peacock's actions were "totally unacceptable" and would "not be tolerated within our force". He was given 18 months for misconduct in public office.

Peacock, who was based in Market Drayton, was suspended after allegations came to light in April 2022.

He resigned from the force in March this year but will still face misconduct proceedings.

'He abused his power'

Peacock's original sentence of 27 months was reduced to 18 because he pleaded guilty.

"The dishonesty and lack of integrity shown by Nicholas Peacock is deplorable," said Ms Jones.

"He abused his power as a police officer, and in the process totally undermined the trust which the victim had placed in him to investigate the case fairly and impartially."

West Mercia Police said the case Peacock had failed to investigate was re-opened and a suspect charged.