AN ex-fraud squad cop in the running for West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner role has revealed he was investigated over alleged money laundering and corruption.
Independent candidate Cedric Christie said he was the subject of a two-year probe by West Yorkshire Police, where he was head of the force’s economic crime unit money laundering team.
But no charges were brought and the former detective inspector said he retired with more than 30 years’ exemplary service last year.
Mr Christie is campaigning for the November 15 election with a pledge to drive out “corruption” in the force.
He claims he fell under suspicion in 2008 due to “malicious criminal intelligence” from fraudsters he was investigating over a multi-million pound mortgage scam.
“It is a hazard of being an effective police officer that criminals will try and discredit you to protect themselves,” he said.
Mr Christie was then asked to take a number of “integrity tests” and had his finances probed.
“I passed with flying colours because I am a straight, honest guy and I was a police officer of the utmost integrity,” he said.
He said he was “open, honest and transparent” when he became aware of the investigation.
“I openly offered access to my bank accounts and emails. I had nothing to hide,” he said.
He added no criminal or disciplinary proceedings followed and he retired last June with a certificate of exemplary service.
“If I had been corrupt I would not be a prospective Police and Crime Commissioner. I would probably be in jail. You won’t find a straighter guy,” he added.
He confirmed his brother, Ralph Christie, is due to go on trial in April charged with fraud, theft and money laundering.
The property developer, and a co-accused, deny making false representations to an alleged victim to secure a 300,000 euro investment in October 2009.
Cedric Christie said he was interviewed in April 2010 about money he had invested with his brother.