Support officer on database charge

A community support officer was accused of unlawfully accessing information held on police databases today.

Metropolitan Police employee Thomas Childs, 22, was charged with seven counts contrary to Section 55 of the Data Protection Act.

The civilian officer, who is based in Hackney but suspended from duty, was also accused of attempting to obtain personal data.

A spokesman said he would appear at City of Westminster Magistrates' Court on 16 December.

The charges follow an investigation by the force's Directorate of Professional Standards into claims sensitive police information was used inappropriately.

The spokesman added: "The Met expects officers and staff to act with professionalism and integrity at all times.

"Any allegations that these standards have not been met will be taken seriously and where appropriate investigated."