A former police sergeant who appeared on television crime shows has been sentenced to four years in prison after requesting an intimate video of a female suspect and fostering a toxic work environment within his unit. Paul Street, 41, of Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, was convicted at the Old Bailey of two counts of misconduct in public office and admitted to unlawfully disclosing personal data by sharing screenshots with his partner.

The case unfolded after anti-corruption investigators uncovered inappropriate WhatsApp groups used by Street and colleagues, revealing a culture of salacious gossip and misconduct. The misconduct came to light following reports from a junior officer and subsequent investigations into the conduct of Cambridgeshire Constabulary personnel.

According to court testimony, in 2020 PC Josh Williams, 38, examined a female suspect’s phone and discovered intimate images and a video. Williams alerted Street, who then asked if there were any nude photos or videos available. Williams sent Street a photo of the woman in her underwear, and Street later inquired whether the video still existed, reportedly intending to share it with acquaintances outside the police force. Although no evidence was found that the video itself was shared beyond the involved officers, Street was found guilty of unlawfully disclosing personal data through screenshots sent to his partner.

In addition to the misconduct involving the female suspect, Street was also found to have encouraged other officers to “bully” a 17-year-old detainee, using language such as “smash his head in” during online exchanges. This behavior was cited as part of a broader toxic atmosphere promoted by Street, which led to wider investigations into eleven other officers; one was dismissed for gross misconduct.

Williams pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office and received a 16-month prison sentence. Both officers were disciplined for actions that breached professional standards and betrayed public trust.

During sentencing, the female suspect addressed the court, expressing feelings of violation, anger, and humiliation over the handling of her private information. Street’s high-profile presence on BBC and Channel 4 crime programs contrasted sharply with findings of improper and unethical conduct under his leadership.

The judgments underscore ongoing concerns about police culture and the necessity of safeguarding personal privacy and dignity in law enforcement operations.