POLICE officers have been under investigation for rape, theft and possessing indecent images of children, new documents show.

The shocking details were released by Nick Alston, Police and Crime Commissioner, yesterday showing 852 complaints were “finalised” by Essex Police between October 1, 2012 and September 30, 2013, with 9.5 per cent being upheld.

The allegations have led to officers being arrested, being taken to court, facing disciplinary action and others being disproved.

Mr Alston said many of the allegations were of “deep concern”.

The documents show three officers were arrested and bailed after allegations of possession of indecent images of children, harassment and sexual offences, and sexual assault.

One of these officers was charged with eight offences and is due to appear at Ipswich Crown Court.

Criminal investigations into the officer accused of possessing indecent images were dropped and an investigation into misconduct was opened.

Another case shows how an officer attempted to kiss a female detainee.

The report also reveals how a now-dismissed Southend officer attended a domestic dispute, only to contact the woman afterwards by accessing police records.

The officer contacted the woman and a friend she was staying with on Facebook, using three different names and met with her three times.

He also sent her sexual text and picture messages.

A police spokesman said: “The vast majority of officers and staff are professional and act with honesty and integrity, but the force is very aware the actions of rogue individuals can impact greatly on how it is viewed.

“For this reason the force aims to deal robustly with any allegations of misconduct and ensure that they are fully investigated, that appropriate action is taken and lessons are learnt.”