CRIMINAL proceedings against two policemen have been dropped three weeks after one of their colleagues was cleared of corruption charges.
However, the pair, who are currently suspended on full pay, could still face losing their jobs as a result of disciplinary action by Grampian Police.
Sergeant Hamish Moir, 36, a former member of the force's drug squad, was charged almost a year ago with attempting to pervert the course of justice and supplying cannabis.
At the same time, Constable James Grimmer, 35, also a former drug squad member, was charged with reset of a set of stolen golf clubs and possession of cannabis.
Aberdeen's assistant procurator-fiscal, Mr Graeme Napier, said: ``After consideration by Crown counsel it has been agreed that there will be no further criminal proceedings against these officers.'' A spokesman for the Crown Office also confirmed the charges had been dropped.
Neither the spokesman nor Mr Napier would disclose why the decision had been made.
Constable Neil Cooper, 36, of Springdale Crescent, Bieldside, Aberdeen, was recently found not guilty at the High Court in Aberdeen of corruptly accepting bribes of more than #6000 from a drugs dealer in return for intelligence information.
Sergeant Moir said yesterday: ``I am relieved that the official confirmation of this decision now brings to an end a very distressing and stressful time for myself and my family.
``I am also happy that this decision finally confirms the innocence of myself and my colleagues."
Constable Grimmer, of Kinmundy Avenue, Westhill, refused to comment.
A spokesman for Grampian Police said the force's deputy chief constable, Mr David Garbutt, would meet officers from Strathclyde Police next week to discuss the internal investigation. ``Strathclyde conducted the criminal investigation so they will also conduct the internal one,'' he said.
All three officers will face disciplinary action.
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