Sick ex-police officer ‘sexually abused underage girls while training to join the force’

A FORMER police officer who “trawled social media” for under age victims has been found guilty of rape and a series of sick sex offences.

Officers who searched Mohammad Arshad’s home found images of teenage girls on his phone and computer, along with social media messages he had sent to potential victims.

The Luton resident was found guilty of 17 charges, including nine counts of causing a child to engage in sexual activity, three of sexual activity with a child and two of meeting a child following sexual grooming.

The vile sex attacker was also convicted of one count of rape, one count of causing a child to watch a sexual act and one count of paying for the sexual services of a child.

Deputy Chief Constable Mark Collins said: "This case shows how vigilant we must all be when it comes to social media and protecting our young people from harm.

"Mohammad Arshad effectively trawled social media sites for young girls, befriending them and grooming them in order to meet and then sexually abuse them for his own gratification.

Arshad was training to become a police officer in 2014 before he was suspended following the brave testimony of one of his victims.

The 35-year-old will face sentencing on April 15 for the crimes — which relate to 12 victims over the space of two years

Meanwhile Bedfordshire Police have reviewed their vetting process following the shocking revelations of twisted criminal activity within their ranks.

Collins added: “Once the allegations were passed to us, we were able to act quickly to arrest him and ensure he was remanded in custody and therefore unable to commit any further offences.

"We worked closely with Luton Borough Council to identify and safeguard potential victims and I would like to commend all of the girls who have given evidence in this trial for their incredible bravery to come forward and help bring Arshad to justice.

"Since this case we have reviewed our vetting policies and procedures in order to ensure they are as robust as possible to prevent anyone involved in criminality from joining the force and thus further protect the people we serve."