Police call handler jailed

A woman who called police about possible drug use at an event was threatened by the alleged drug dealer.

Lincoln Crown Court heard the victim’s second call to report the threats led to an investigation into the call handler at Lincolnshire Police headquarters (pictured).

Stuart Wells, 31, worked as a call taker in the Force Control Room and on October 14, 2023, he took a call from a member of the public reporting possible drug use. Wells recognised the name of the suspected drug dealer and went on to send her a message that she had been reported to police.

Wells, of North Greetwell, was arrested an offence of Misconduct in Public Office and pleaded guilty yesterday (Thursday) at a pretrial hearing when he was sentenced to six months in prison and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £154.  Wells had left the organisation in April 2024.

Deputy Chief Constable Julia Debenham said: “Unfortunately this one case has the ability to undermine the good work we see our teams doing every day to protect the public. 

“Allegations are taken very seriously and when the actions of Wells came to light swift action was taken to deal with what is a very serious matter. He was immediately suspended from his role.

“Our staff will always be held accountable for their actions and I want to be really clear there is absolutely no place for this behaviour in our force. We are here to protect our communities and this includes their information. The actions of Wells fell far below the standard expected."