Wiltshire Police ischecking existing officers against police databases to root out “criminality and corruption” in the force.

The county’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson, claims he is determined to restore public trust in the police after David Carrick, a Metropolitan Police officer, pleaded guilty to 49 sexual offences over 18 years.

Mr Wilkinson has welcomed an announcement by the Home Office ordering police forces to check their existing staff against police databases in the same way they would new recruits.

He said: “We have many professional and dedicated officers within Wiltshire but any good work they are doing is constantly being tainted with the criminality of others.

“I absolutely agree with the need for Wiltshire Police to review its officers and staff as they would with our new recruits. This is already in motion within the Force and is a positive first step in ensuring our communities can trust those working to protect them.  

“There is no place within Wiltshire Police for those who wish to harm and abuse their position of power. Any found lurking will be rooted out. There is also no place for those in charge to turn a blind eye to any level of unacceptable behaviour.”

The Home Office also plans to strengthen vetting standards for new recruits nationally, while the PCC claims that he and the Chief Constable are currently reviewing local standards and policies.

All existing misconduct cases within Wiltshire Police force are also being reviewed to ensure they are being managed effectively, while an information campaign has been launched to ensure officers are aware of the standards expected and how to report instances where they are not met.

The PCC added that Wiltshire Police are running a frontline supervisors’ course to set standards for officers and staff, including a code of conduct to hold them to account.

He said: “Cases involving a police service employee undermine the good work of the vast majority, chipping away at public confidence, and enough is enough.

“Any moves to ensure the strengthening of the vetting standards and procedures are to be applauded. My office and the Chief Constable are looking at these on a local level and we will challenge and change those procedures where necessary.

"I have made it abundantly clear that we need to ensure Chief Constables have the power they need to remove criminality and corruption from within their own ranks, where it exists. I am determined to make sure every officer can be trusted by Wiltshire’s communities.”