Former Police Officer Removed GPS Tag from Burglar for a Night of Passion at Leeds Hotel
A former police officer, Natasha Conneely, has admitted to removing the GPS tag from the ankle of a convicted burglar to facilitate a night of passion at a Leeds hotel. The shocking revelation has raised concerns over the abuse of power and the integrity of law enforcement officers.
Conneely, who was part of the offender management unit for Bedfordshire Police, resigned from her position following the discovery of her inappropriate relationship in May 2023. Her actions included tampering with police systems to cover up the movements of the burglar, whose identity has not been disclosed.
A Secret Affair Unveiled
The scandal unraveled when messages exchanged between Conneely and the burglar were discovered. These messages revealed that she had removed his electronic tag a month earlier, allowing him to visit her home undetected. She had also manipulated police databases to ensure his location remained hidden from authorities.
The pair’s relationship culminated in a clandestine night together at a hotel in Leeds in June 2023. During this encounter, Conneely had cut off the GPS tag to avoid detection, demonstrating a clear breach of trust and professional conduct.
Betraying the Badge
Following an investigation by Bedfordshire Police’s Professional Standards Department, Conneely was charged with corrupt or other improper exercise of police powers and privileges. At a hearing in November 2023, her behavior was deemed gross misconduct, violating standards of discreditable conduct, honesty, and integrity.
The disciplinary panel concluded that had she not resigned, Conneely would have been dismissed. She has since been barred from ever returning to policing, a move welcomed by both law enforcement officials and the public.
A Pattern of Abuse in Policing
This latest incident adds to a growing list of cases where police and correctional officers have abused their authority to engage in inappropriate relationships with those under their supervision:
1. Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women (New Jersey, USA): Officers Kevin Brodie, William Jimenez, and David Clappison were all prosecuted in the 1990s for engaging in sexual relationships with inmates.
2. Medomsley Detention Centre (England): Officers Neville Husband and Leslie Johnson were jailed for sexually abusing young inmates over several decades.
3. Federal Medical Center in Lexington (Kentucky, USA): Officer Jacob Salcido was sentenced for engaging in sexual acts with three inmates, demonstrating a severe abuse of power.
4. Northern State Prison (Newark, New Jersey, USA): Officer Tasheena Majors was charged with sexual assault after having a relationship with a male inmate.
5. California Women’s Prisons: Numerous correctional officers were found to have exploited female inmates sexually, often coercing them into relationships.
Calls for Reform
This incident underscores the urgent need for stronger oversight and accountability in law enforcement and correctional institutions. Experts are calling for enhanced training, stricter vetting processes, and more robust reporting mechanisms to prevent such abuses of power.
A spokesperson for Bedfordshire Police stated, “The actions of Ms. Conneely are a grave betrayal of the public’s trust. We remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity within our ranks.”
The case is expected to lead to further internal reviews and possible changes to policies surrounding the management of offenders and the conduct of police officers.