A former police officer was jailed for 2½ years yesterday for dumping more than 60 traffic tickets for his own profit.

Pc Kyle Wheatley, 34, resigned from the Bermuda Police Service on Monday after he pleaded guilty in the Supreme Court to conspiracy to defeat the ends of justice.

Acting Puisne Judge Juan Wolffe told the court that corruption charges such as those against Wheatley “struck at the heart” of the criminal justice system.

He added: “Those that engage in such practices should expect to be dealt with seriously.

“Therefore, a clear and unequivocal message must be sent to the community that the defendant and would-be offenders will be treated harshly in the way of sentence.”

Mr Justice Wolffe added that the reasons behind the sentence will be released next week.

Wheatley remained silent as sentence was passed.

Commissioner of Police Stephen Corbishley said last night: “Mr Wheatley has been held to account for his actions and has subsequently lost his career in the BPS and will now serve a substantial custodial sentence.

“He abused his position for personal gain and not only committed criminal acts but he held in disregard his oath as a police constable to discharge his duties with integrity.”

Mr Corbishley added: “However, his actions are his own and they do not represent the hard work of police officers and staff who serve and protect our communities.”

The charges involved the destruction or suppression of 63 traffic tickets between July 2017 and May 2018.

Mr Corbishley said on Monday that it was important that officers were able to use discretion in some circumstances.

But he added: “What should never happen, though, is that an officer takes a personal decision for his own benefit ... because that is corrupt behaviour.

“That is behaviour that undermines justice and it’s not the right thing. That cannot ever be accepted as a police officer.”

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