Dorset Police Officer Dismissed After Admitting Fraud

14 May 2014, 13:03 | Updated: 14 May 2014, 13:06

A Dorset police officer who admitted using a victim's bank account to pay his personal debts has been dismissed from his force.

Adam McLean, 38, who served with Dorset Police, pleaded guilty to five counts of fraud by false representation at Bournemouth Crown Court.

McLean was arrested on June 12 following an investigation by Dorset Police's Anti-Corruption Unit and the Major Crime Team.

He met his victim, a 52-year-old man from Sherborne, in 2006, when he dealt with an incident in the town while on duty.

The pair later became friends and McLean went on to abuse his position, using the man's bank account to pay off his own personal debts in 2012.

Superintendent Dave Thorp, of Dorset Police, announcing McLean's dismissal today, said the former officer had "let down'' the police service.

"Pc Adam McLean was working in a position of trust. He betrayed that trust and let down his colleagues and the police service,'' Mr Thorp said.

"His arrest, prosecution and subsequent dismissal by chief constable Debbie Simpson, reinforces the fact that Dorset Police is committed to the highest levels of ethical policing and integrity.

"Any staff member of Dorset Police suspected of a criminal offence will be thoroughly investigated.''

McLean was arrested on June 12 2013 following the investigation by Dorset Police.

He admitted five counts of fraud by false representation at Bournemouth Crown Court on April 3 2014 and was sentenced on the same date.

Following the conviction and sentence, McLean was dismissed from Dorset Police on April 28. The force announced his dismissal today.