THE GODSON of the detective sacked for his part in a strippergram party has pleaded with Lancashire's chief constable to reinstate him.

Eleven-year-old James Leighton, right, has sent an emotional letter to Pauline Clare urging her to reconsider the decision which led to Detective Constable Joe Scanlan quitting the force.

James, of Roughlee, was distraught at the decision of the two-day police inquiry headed by Mrs Clare. Two other officers from Accrington were fined for their part in the sex show scandal.

Mr Scanlan, 32, whose mother Teresa lives in Burnley and has also spoken about about her son's treatment, is currently waiting a date for his appeal to try to keep his job.

It followed a surprise sex show at police HQ at Hutton for Mr Scanlan's birthday nearly a year ago. The incident was videoed and exposed in Sunday newspapers. James, a pupil at Fishermore High School, Colne, is outraged at the treatment his godfather has received and sent a copy of his letter to Mrs Clare to the Lancashire Evening Telegraph asking for it to be published.

He says: "I am writing this letter in disgust of the fact Joe has been made an example of for something he never created.

"I understand that what he did might have been wrong, but this would have never happened if Joe hadn't been set up. A fine is a small price to pay for those who have set up a respectful man.

"Now Joe has lost his faith to succeed and has lost a lot of respect, but he has not lost mine. Joe has done no harm to anyone apart from his family, wife and his own pride.

"Joe loved his job and would do anything he could to prevent someone getting hurt. He was excellent at his job, so good that he got a commendation in bravery.

"Joe was in suspense for nine months waiting for his trial. I am distraught at your decision to ask a member of Force Intelligence to resign."

A copy of the letter has also been forwarded to Home Office Secretary and Blackburn MP Jack Straw.

A spokeswoman for Lancashire police said Mrs Clare would reply to the letter.

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