A former West Mercia Police community support officer has been jailed after initiating sexual relationships with two victims of crime. Thomas Poole, 37, who served as a PCSO in Redditch, abused his position of trust by taking advantage of victims he met through his role between April 2023 and October 2024.
The Professional Standards Department was alerted to Poole's behaviour, leading to his swift arrest and suspension from duty. He was sentenced to 21 months in prison at Wolverhampton Magistrates' Court on May 19, after admitting two counts of misconduct in a public office.
Police Condemn Abuse of Trust
Deputy Chief Constable Damian Barratt of West Mercia Police stated: "Poole abused his position of trust and exploited two people at a time when they needed support from police the most. Victims of crime are often vulnerable, and for a member of police staff to take advantage of that is abhorrent and illegal. It totally undermines the trust the public place in us."
He thanked the victims for their courage in supporting the investigation, adding: "Without it we would not have been able to take action and prevent Poole from being able to prey on victims again in the future. He has no place in policing, and I'm pleased that he's been brought to justice."
Case Details
A force spokesperson confirmed that Poole, based in Redditch, pleaded guilty to the offences. Between April 2023 and October 2024, he initiated sexual relationships with two crime victims he encountered through his PCSO duties. The Professional Standards Department acted promptly upon receiving intelligence about his conduct.
Poole's sentence reflects the seriousness of his crimes, which breached the trust placed in police officers and staff. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity within law enforcement and the protection of vulnerable victims.
