26 October 2012 Last updated at 09:34 ET

Ex-Cumbria Police worker Ben Lewis jailed

Lewis no longer works for Cumbria Police

A former Cumbria Police worker has been jailed for four-and-a-half years for leaking information about suspected criminal activity in Carlisle.

Ben Lewis, 21, from Brampton, was a front counter clerk when he used police IT systems to unlawfully disclose criminal information.

Carlisle Crown Court heard he accessed the systems in March and April 2011.

He pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office, theft and two counts of conspiracy to supply controlled drugs.

The court heard how he was suspended from duty and arrested on 28 June 2011 on suspicion of affray and possession of cannabis. He resigned on 23 August 2011.

Temporary deputy chief constable Jeremy Graham said: "Ben Lewis abused his position of trust and disclosed highly sensitive information to criminal associates.

"He no longer works for the constabulary."

Community order

Lewis appeared in court with four other defendants.

Jamie Macauley, 21, from Cumwhinton, was jailed for six years after admitting conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs, and aiding, abetting or procuring Ben Lewis to disclose confidential information and commit misconduct in a public office in April 2011.

Lauren Richardson, 18, from Carlisle, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs and was sentenced to two years imprisonment.

Paul Elliman, 19, from Carlisle, pleaded guilty to supplying Class B drugs and offering to supply Class B drugs. He was sentenced to 12 months, suspended for two years, and given a community order.

Benjamin Stout, 20, from Carlisle, pleaded guilty to aiding, abetting or procuring Ben Lewis to disclose confidential information and commit misconduct in a public office in April 2011. He was sentenced to 12 months, suspended for two years, and given a community order.