Merseyside Police issue statement over picture of half-naked 'cop' on Tinder
The image has been doing the rounds of social media
Merseyside Police have issued a statement, after a picture of a half-naked 'cop' started doing the rounds on social media.
The screenshot of a Tinder profile was actually taken in 2020 and reported to the force's Professional Standards branch.
Following an investigation, it's emerged the man wearing nothing but a stab vest, and covering his modesty with a police issue hat, is not a police officer.
Merseyside Police have said
“Following an investigation it was established that the man pictured was not – and has never been – a police officer or a member of police staff.
“The man was wearing police equipment belonging to a serving Merseyside Police officer in the photograph.
“The officer was not present at the time the photograph was taken or aware it was being taken.
“He was given advice by our Professional Standards Department and the man who posted the image on a dating app later removed it on the officer’s request.
"Our dedicated Professional Standards Department thoroughly investigate any allegations of misconduct by anyone employed by the force.
“It is essential that police officers and staff act with respect, professionalism and integrity at all times and that as a Force we take swift and robust action to investigate anyone whose behaviour falls short of those high standards.”