JOHN FRANKLAND FROM OSWESTRY DISMISSED AFTER INDECENT PHOTO CHARGES IN TELFORD

In April 2017, a significant misconduct case involving a former West Mercia Police employee from Oswestry came to light, resulting in his dismissal from the force. The individual, John Frankland, aged 60, faced serious allegations related to the creation of indecent images of minors, which led to a court appearance and subsequent disciplinary action.

John Frankland appeared at Telford Magistrates' Court on April 10, where he was formally charged with three counts of producing indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of a child. The charges stemmed from activities that were not conducted during his official duties but nonetheless cast a shadow over his professional conduct and integrity.

Following his conviction, Frankland was sentenced to six months in prison, a sentence that was suspended for a period of 12 months. Additionally, he was subjected to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order, which aims to restrict his activities and prevent any further offenses of a similar nature. The court proceedings and sentencing marked a serious development in the case, highlighting the gravity of the allegations.

At the time of the offences, Frankland was employed as an Operations and Communication Centre operator based at Hindlip, a role that involved critical communication and operational responsibilities within the police force. It is important to note that the offences for which he was convicted were not committed during his working hours or in the course of his official duties.

Following the court's decision and the conviction, Superintendent Helena Bennett, who oversees professional standards for West Mercia Police, issued a statement confirming that Frankland had been suspended from duty prior to his dismissal. She emphasized that the misconduct hearing, which led to his removal from the force, was conducted in accordance with standard procedures and that the outcome is now subject to the usual appeals process.

Overall, this case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to maintain integrity and public trust, ensuring that individuals who breach professional standards are held accountable, regardless of their previous service or position within the force.