Arrested West Yorkshire Police officer found dead

A police officer who had been arrested has been found dead in woods, his force said today.

West Yorkshire Police said the officer, 33, reported to be a father of two, was found in woodland in Lofthouse on Thursday lunchtime.

He had been arrested the day before "in relation to alleged criminal offences".

The force said there were no suspicious circumstances and an inquest would open soon.

The matter has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission "in accordance with established procedures", the force spokeswoman said.

"The force extends its sincere sympathy to the family," she added.

Police and crime commissioner Mark Burns-Williamson said: "I have every confidence in West Yorkshire Police to carry out the investigation and conclude this matter properly in line with the view of the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

"I would like to extend my condolences to the family of this officer."

The force did not name the dead officer, or specify the allegation he faced.

PA