CPS advises prosecution of customs officer for public justice offences

20/12/2010

The Crown Prosecution Service has advised the Independent Police Complaints Commission that customs officer Paul Cook should be prosecuted for misconduct in public office and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.

Reviewing lawyer from the Special Crime Division of the CPS, Sally Walsh, said: "I have advised the IPCC that Mr Cook should be summonsed to appear at City of Westminster Magistrates' Court on 11 January 2011.

"The charges relate to a period from 1993 to 2001, when Mr Cook was an officer of Her Majesty's Customs and Excise, and worked in the National Investigation Service.

"I have reviewed a file of evidence from  the IPCC and have decided there is sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction so that a jury could reasonably conclude that his conduct fell significantly below the standards the public are entitled to expect from someone in his position.

"I considered the public interest very carefully in deciding whether Mr Cook should be prosecuted given the length of time which has elapsed for some of these allegations. However, the seriousness of the offences and the allegations mean I have decided the public interest requires a prosecution.

"Mr Cook now faces prosecution for criminal offences and has the right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that nothing should be reported which could prejudice his trial."

Ends

Notes to Editors

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