A former cop ended up in court after he was caught offering to deal steroids. Aaron Jones, 36, was handed a community order for offering to supply class C drugs.
The former constable pleaded guilty to two counts of offering to supply class C drugs when he appeared in court. It followed an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The watchdog found PC Jones had offered to supply steroids in January 2019 contrary to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. He appeared at Liverpool Magistrates Court on Tuesday (14 June) and was sentenced to a 12-month community order and ordered to carry out 80 hours of unpaid work.
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The allegations that the former officer offered to supply class C drugs came to light as part of evidence gathered for a separate IOPC investigation, according to the watchdog.
Analysis of a mobile phone belonging to PC Jones uncovered WhatsApp messages which appeared to show the officer discussing steroids. One exchange showed a message from PC Jones’ number saying 'did I hear someone say juice…..' along with a photo of a drawer of what appeared to be steroids.
In other messages, PC Jones said he had two different types of steroids and offered advice on using them. He also contacted another person on WhatsApp to seek advice about the potential side effects of someone else using steroids.
During his interview with the watchdog, PC Jones confirmed he had a supply of steroids which he photographed and sent in a message, but said they were for his personal use.
The IOPC submitted a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service in March 2021 and criminal charges were authorised.
After he was sentenced, IOPC Regional Director Catherine Bates said: "The sentence sends a clear message to police officers who choose to engage in criminal activity that they will be caught and face the consequences of their actions.
"Conduct of this nature seriously undermines public confidence in policing and our investigation ensured PC Jones was held accountable for his actions. The behaviour we uncovered fell well below the standards expected of a police officer."
A misconduct hearing for the former officer will now be organised by Greater Manchester Police. He has resigned from the force.
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