A CORRUPT police officer who tipped off crooks by leaking information from police databases was jailed for seven months. Keiley Patton, a former PC in the Harlesden Safer Neighbourhoods Team, betrayed the community by abusing her position of trust to help

A CORRUPT police officer who tipped off crooks by leaking information from police databases was jailed for seven months.

Keiley Patton, a former PC in the Harlesden Safer Neighbourhoods Team, betrayed the community by abusing her position of trust to help a number of convicted criminals between January 2007 and June 2008 when she was arrested.

Southwark Crown Court heard how the 27-year-old, from Hornsey, also carried out unauthorised checks on confidential police computer systems on behalf of her boyfriend Soloman Henry, as well as members of his family and seven others. In addition, she admitted helping Henry to get hold of class C drugs and fraudulently applied for car insurance on his behalf.

She was snared during an investigation by the Met's Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS), which was launched when suspicions about her conduct were raised.

Patton, who resigned before she went to trial, admitted misconduct in a public office and Henry pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting misconduct in a public office.

Last week, Patton was sent to jail for seven months and Henry received 16 weeks suspended for two years. He was also ordered to do 120 hours community service.

Patton was also accused of acting as a 'lookout' for a burglar by listening in on her police radio as he broke into the World Airways internet caf�, in Ealing Road, Wembley, in April 2007.

The unknown intruder stole cash and phone cards worth �4,580. But she denied burglary and the charge was ordered to remain on the court file.

Henry was also charged with illegally obtaining confidential personal information under the Data Protection Act, which he denied, and the charge was left on file.

Det Insp, Des McHugh, from the DPS, said: "The guilty pleas given previously reflect the effective and thorough manner of the DPS' proactive investigation.

"The successful work of the DPS, of which this case is an example, illustrates the on-going commitment of the Met to ensure any officers who are corrupt or do not meet the standards expected are dealt with.

"Fortunately such officers are few and the majority of officers and staff act with professionalism and integrity.