A DORSET police officer has been convicted of five counts of fraud by false representation and sentenced to a community service order.

Adam McLean, 38, pleaded guilty at Bournemouth Crown Court on Thursday, April 3.

On the same day he was sentenced to a community service order to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work for each offence – to run concurrently. Following his conviction he was dismissed from Dorset Police on April 28.

The PCwas arrested on June 12 last year following a pro-active investigation by the Dorset Police Anti-Corruption Unit and the Major Crime Team.

He met the victim, a 52-year-old Sherborne man, in 2006 when he dealt with an incident in the town while on duty and subsequently they became friends.

PC McLean went on to abuse his position and in 2012 he used the victim’s bank account to pay off his own personal debts.

Superintendent Dave Thorp, of Dorset Police, said: “PC Adam McLean was working in a position of trust. He betrayed that trust and let down his colleagues and the police service.

“His arrest, prosecution and subsequent dismissal by Chief Constable Debbie Simpson, reinforces the fact that Dorset Police is committed to the highest levels of ethical policing and integrity.

“Any staff member of Dorset Police suspected of a criminal offence will be thoroughly investigated.”