Broadband Tech > Security > Security > 900 UK police charged w/ illegal data access over 4 years

Between 2007 and 2010:
• 243 Police officers and staff received criminal convictions for breaching the Data Protection Act (DPA).
• 98 Police officers and staff had their employment terminated for breaching the DPA.
• 904 Police officers and staff were subjected to internal disciplinary procedures for breaching the DPA.

Commenting on the research findings Daniel Hamilton, Director of Big Brother Watch said:
"The allegations surrounding Andy Coulson are just the tip of the iceberg.

"It's astonishing to think that 904 Police officers and support staff across England have faced disciplinary action for abusing their access to confidential systems.
243 have received criminal convictions for their actions, while 98 have lost their jobs.

"Our investigation shows that not only have Police employees been found to have run background records checks on friends and possible partners, but some have been convicted for passing sensitive information to criminal gangs and drug dealers. This is at best hugely intrusive and, at worse, downright dangerous.

"Police forces must adopt a zero tolerance approach to this kind of behavior. Those found guilty of abusing their position should be sacked on the spot."

Do you believe this violation of public trust happens with regularity, in your municipality? I do.

It would be pretty tough for cops, staff, etc. in our area to access and use LEADS or OHLEG (Ohio State Patrol's portal) for personal snooping without being caught. The administrators log everything and use analysis tools to spot unauthorized usage and searches, and even their activity is audited.