PSNI suspensions at highest level

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The number of police officers suspended because of disciplinary proceedings is at its highest ever level, it has emerged.

There are currently 42 officers with the force suspended from duty and facing disciplinary proceedings.

The reasons for suspension include alleged threats to kill, drink-driving, possession of drugs, alleged possession of indecent images and assault.

The level of suspensions is believed to be highest among all UK police forces.

However, Ulster Unionist policing board member Basil McCrea said the figures do not mean that more police officers are breaking the law.

"What encourages me in this particular instance is that the police are taking action and are seen to be taking action," he said.

"The vast majority of the police are very honourable, decent people, doing a very good job."

A PSNI spokesman said the number of suspensions had to be viewed in the context of the overall size of the force, which currently stands at more than 8,500 full and part-time officers