An award-winning police specials boss has quit over claims he used the force’s official Twitter account to send “inappropriate” messages to GAY MEN.
James Horton, head of Dudley District Special Constabulary, resigned over claims he misused the official West Midlands Police Twitter page.
The 34-year-old is said to have sent personal messages chatting up hunky homosexual men over the social network – some of whose online profiles show them in provocative bare-chested poses.
But as the force launched an investigation into his actions, Horton stepped down from his post on January 17 before disciplinary proceedings got underway.
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: “A member of the force’s Special Constabulary was referred to the Police Professional Standards Department over alleged misuse of a force social media account, against force policy.
“The individual officer concerned has since resigned.
“Any identified breaches of force policy are taken extremely seriously and will be thoroughly and professionally investigated.”
Last July Horton, from Birmingham, was given a prestigious policing award for his dedication in continuing to volunteer for the force while battling cancer.
He was awarded the Chief Constable’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to West Midlands Police.
He had worked with the specials for more than ten years and headed a team of 70 volunteers.
After accepting the award last year, he said: “I’ve always been enthusiastic for what I do.
“If you are going to volunteer for something you need to love doing it and everyday I’m encouraged and inspired by my team.”
Praising Horton at the time, Dudley Chief Supt Stuart Johnson, of West Midlands Police, said: “James is dedicated to his role and has always undertaken his duties with professionalism and enthusiasm.
“He is highly regarded among the senior leadership team and respected by his colleagues.”
Horton could not be contacted for comment
