A WORCESTERSHIRE policeman has been jailed for 15 months after admitting having sex with a domestic violence victim while on duty.

Police Constable Jordan Powell, who worked for West Mercia Police, also sent inappropriate text messages to the woman, who he met through his job, as well sending another female victim of crime similar messages.

The 31-year-old, from Kidderminster, was due to stand trial but admitted the charges before a jury was sworn in.

His boss has since admitted that Morgan’s “despicable” behaviour makes it “harder for the public to maintain their trust in us”.

“This officer acted in an unforgivable way and abused his role and the position of trust that he had been given,” said Assistant Chief Constable, Gareth Morgan.

“He has exploited his role and targeted vulnerable women for his own personal gratification.

“On behalf of West Mercia Police I would like to apologise to the women involved and pay tribute to their strength and bravery throughout this investigation.

“I am proud to say the vast majority of our workforce are honest, hard-working individuals who are dedicated to serving our local communities.

“When a police officer acts in such a despicable way it makes it harder for the public to maintain their trust in us and damages the good relations we have.

“This investigation underlines the fact that West Mercia Police will not tolerate the tiny minority of dishonest staff or officers who give others a bad name.”

Powell was jailed for 15 months after admitting three counts of misconduct in a public office.

He was arrested and suspended from West Mercia Police in July 2012 having joined the force in October 2004.

Gloucester Crown Court heard he had already received a written warning in 2008 for an inappropriate relationship with a female victim of crime.

Sentencing him, His Honour Judge Tabor said his behaviour ”undermined public confidence”.