Former Bristol PC Jailed for Indecent Images Offences

A former Avon and Somerset Police constable has been jailed for 13 months. Michael Elmer, 36, was convicted of making and distributing indecent images of children.

He was sentenced today, Monday 20 April, at Exeter Crown Court. Mr Elmer, formerly based in Bristol, also received a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

Charges and Conviction

Mr Elmer was arrested in May 2025 by officers with the Internet Child Abuse Team. This followed information received by the force.

He was later charged with five offences. Mr Elmer admitted these at Exeter Crown Court in February.

The admitted offences were:

• Three counts of making an indecent photograph/pseudo-photograph of a child
• One count of distributing an indecent photograph/pseudo-photograph of a child
• One count of sharing a photograph or film of a person in an intimate state for the purpose of sexual gratification

Misconduct and Sentencing

Mr Elmer resigned prior to a misconduct hearing held earlier this month. He was found to have committed gross misconduct.

He would have been dismissed if he had not already resigned. Mr Elmer was added to the national barred list. This prevents him from working in policing or other law enforcement agencies again.

Judge David Evans said Mr Elmer had committed “deliberate offending”. The judge stated he engaged online “in a way that shows you are sexually interested in children”. Judge Evans added the offences were too serious for any other way than custody.

Police Statement

Deputy Chief Constable Jon Reilly commented on the sentencing.

“Making and distributing indecent images of children are appalling offences. The sharing of these vile images online creates and supports an environment where those who have a sexual interest in children can operate.

“Officers have a clear duty to protect members of the public, especially the most vulnerable, so to engage in this abhorrent criminality is extremely serious and he’ll now have to face the consequences of his actions.

“We know cases like this will impact on trust and confidence in the police which will inevitably have an impact on the overwhelming majority of officers, staff and volunteers who care deeply about dutifully serving and protecting their communities.”

OFFICIAL SOURCE VERIFICATION: This article is based on an official press release issued by a Police Force. Document: Former officer jailed for indecent images offences Source Link 

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