Police detention officer William Loyd-Hughes charged over Ulster Defence Association Twitter posts

A police detention officer has been charged with a terrorism offence after allegedly publishing images on social media in support of the Ulster Defence Association (UDA).

The police watchdog said William Loyd-Hughes, 26, who was based at Huddersfield Police Station, in West Yorkshire, is accused of publishing images in support of a proscribed organisation, contrary to the Terrorism Act 2000.

He also faces three charges under the Communications Act 2003 of sharing grossly offensive messages on Twitter.

Loyd-Hughes is due to appear in court later this week.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said on Monday that the charges follow an investigation it directed, carried out by Counter Terrorism Policing North East, into the messages following a mandatory referral from West Yorkshire Police in September 2022.

It said the Crown Prosecution Service authorised four charges against Loyd-Hughes and the alleged offences are believed to have taken place in August and September 2022, while he was working for West Yorkshire Police as a civilian staff member.

Loyd-Hughes is due to make his first appearance at Westminster Magistrates' Court, in London, on 15 March.

He is currently suspended by the force, the IOPC said.

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know.