A former Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officer offered to supply steroids on social media messaging platform WhatsApp.

Aaron Jones, 36, who served the force as a police constable, offered to supply steroids back in January 2019, contrary to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

Allegations that he tried to supply class C drugs came as part of a separate investigation by police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

Analysis of WhatsApp messages on a phone belonging to Jones appeared to show him discussing steroids with one message stating “Did I hear someone say juice…..”, along with a photo of a drawer of medication which seem to be steroids.

In other messages he said he had two different types of steroids in his possession and offered advice on using them.

He contacted another person on WhatsApp to ask for advice about the potential side effects of someone else using steroids.

During interview, Jones confirmed he had a supply of steroids which he photographed and sent in a message, but said they were for his personal use. 

But police later referred the matter to the Crown Prosecution Service who authorised charges against him.

After admitted two counts of dealing Class C drugs, he was given a 12-month community order at Liverpool Magistrates' Court, which requiring him to do 80 hours of unpaid work.

IOPC regional director Catherine Bates said: “The sentence sends a clear message to police officers who choose to engage in criminal activity that they will be caught and face the consequences of their actions.

“Conduct of this nature seriously undermines public confidence in policing and our investigation ensured PC Jones was held accountable for his actions. The behaviour we uncovered fell well below the standards expected of a police officer.”

A misconduct hearing for the officer will now be organised by GMP.