A TOP detective fears Home Secretary Jack Straw could threaten civil rights if he moves to make it easier for corrupt police to be kicked off the force.

The Association of Chief Police Officers want Blackburn MP Mr Straw to reduce the "standard of proof" needed before an officer can be sacked.

But Detective Superintendent Graham Gooch, who has led several high-profile investigations in East Lancashire, said ACPO's proposals for changes in the disciplinary system were so draconian that the organisation would be seen as a "serious threat to civil liberties."

In a letter to the Police Review magazine, Mr Gooch said the dangers were that officers would no longer be deemed innocent until guilty as in criminal law, and that officers could be dismissed by the chief constable before a hearing had even take place. Under current rules, the evidence has to prove guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt" - higher than that needed in civil cases or industrial tribunals.

Mr Gooch added: "I believe wrongdoers should be sought out and dealt with accordingly.

"The system may be slow and incontinent - and inefficient - but we should not sacrifice morality for the sake of short-term gains."

Today Straw said he was considering ACPO's proposals and would consider everyone affected before taking action.

He added: "Corrupt officers have no place in a modern and accountable police service.

"It is crucial we have a discipline system which has the confidence and support of the public and which, at the same time, protects police from malicious accusations.

"I am carefully considering the representations I have had from ACPO, the Police Federation and other interested parties about changes to police disciplinary procedures."

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