Yorkshire fraud probe policeman found hanged

Sgt Simon Jenkinson was reportedly found hanged after police were called to a property in the Meanwood area of Leeds.

The 31-year-old officer, who worked in West Yorkshire Police's North West Leeds division, had been on bail since being arrested on suspicion of fraud on Monday.

He had been suspended from duty while investigations were carried out.

West Yorkshire Police said Sgt Jenkinson's body was found at 1.15pm on Wednesday and the death was not being treated as suspicious.

A force spokesman said: "He was subject to an investigation by the professional standards department relating to fraud allegations."

West Yorkshire Police referred the death to the Independent Police Complaints Commission, but the watchdog handed the case back after deciding it should be dealt with by the force.

Chief Supt Ian Whitehouse, divisional commander of North West Leeds division, said: "Any sudden death is tragic. I extend our sympathies to Simon's family, friends and work colleagues.

"I have spoken personally to officers who I know worked closely with Simon and we are offering support to any staff affected by his death."

A 23-year-old woman arrested in connection with the fraud allegations has been bailed by police. She is not thought to be a serving police officer.