Norfolk Pc to appeal against 'media leak' dismissal

Sally Chidzoy
Home Affairs Correspondent, BBC East

A former Norfolk police officer who was sacked after allegedly passing information to a newspaper is lodging an appeal against his dismissal.

Police started an investigation after stories appeared in the Eastern Daily Press (EDP) - a newspaper based in Norwich.

The reports included coverage of the disbanding of the force diving team and the discovery of a box of police files in a car park.

Police interviewed two reporters who declined to reveal their sources.

A lengthy inquiry resulted in the policeman losing his job.

There have been allegations made and police have spoken to our journalists but nothing has been proven EDP editor Peter Waters

The Police Federation, which is representing the Pc, told the BBC: "The officer was dismissed following an internal inquiry and that officer is appealing the decision.

"He maintains his innocence. It is anticipated that the appeal will be heard by the Police Appeals Tribunal in the summer."

EDP editor Peter Waters said: "There have been allegations made and police have spoken to our journalists but nothing has been proven."

Norfolk Police told the BBC: "We cannot disclose details of internal disciplinary procedures.

"However, it is a matter of fact that an officer was dismissed on 14 January for a breach of the standards of professional behaviour relating to confidentiality.

"The matter is now the subject of a police appeals tribunal."