Former Bristol officer barred from policing after indecent images conviction
Michael Elmer banned from law enforcement following gross misconduct hearing
Last updated 7th Apr 2026
A former police officer from Bristol will never work in law enforcement again after being convicted of making and distributing indecent images of children.
Michael Elmer, 36, was a police constable based in Bristol and was arrested in May 2025 by officers from Avon & Somerset Police's Internet Child Abuse Team, following new information.
Charged with five offences, Elmer first appeared at Exeter Magistrates’ Court in January.
He pleaded guilty in February at Exeter Crown Court to three counts of making an indecent photograph/pseudo-photograph of a child, one count of distributing an indecent photograph/pseudo-photograph of a child, and one count of sharing a photograph or film of a person in an intimate state for sexual gratification.
Misconduct Hearing and Disciplinary Action
An accelerated misconduct hearing this morning at Police Headquarters determined the former officer committed gross misconduct.
Elmer was suspended upon his arrest and has since resigned, preventing his dismissal at the hearing.
Avon & Somerset Police's Deputy Chief Constable Jon Reilly commented on the case, emphasising the gravity of the offences and the robust action taken.
"This former officer has committed abhorrent offences for which he will be sentenced later this month," Reilly said.
"As soon as we became aware of the offences, an investigation was launched and he was suspended from duty. The outcome of this misconduct process means he will never be able to work in policing or any other law enforcement role again."
Reilly also noted the adverse impact of Elmer's actions on his colleagues and the public, reaffirming the high standards expected in policing.
Elmer's sentencing is scheduled for Monday, 20th April.