Ex-officer jailed after sharing sensitive images

Russell Hinkins, 44, shared a number of images, including two unsuspicious deaths

A former police officer has been jailed for four years after he shared sensitive information, including images of two unsuspicious deaths.

Russell Hinkins of Sperling Drive, Haverhill, Suffolk, was sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court on Monday.

Essex Police said Hinkins had shared a number of images and information of incidents with third parties without "policing purpose to do so".

The 44-year-old was convicted after admitting misconduct in a public office on 6 February and resigned from the force in March 2023.

Hinkins also admitted charges of securing unauthorised access to material and disclosing information without consent.

Dep Ch Con Andy Prophet said: "Russell Hinkins has caused a great deal of anger and distress to those involved, and I want to apologise to them for his actions.

"These were deliberate acts and not a case of an officer who just made a mistake.

"This was a long, complex and emotive case, and their work has ensured Hinkins is now behind bars."

Hinkins is due to face an Essex Police misconduct process.