Victoria Police have suspended a second employee over the leaked photo of former North Melbourne coach Dean Laidley in custody following his arrest in St Kilda on Sunday night.
It was confirmed in a statement on Tuesday night by Professional Standards Command that another Victoria Police member been suspended “in relation to photos circulating on social media of a person who was in custody at a police station in Victoria”.
Police said the investigation into the Professional Standards investigation was ongoing.
A senior constable accused of leaking the Laidley photo was stood down with pay earlier in the week and could face maximum penalties of two years in prison or $40,000 in fines.
It was reported that the constable sent the photo of Laidley wearing a wig, make up and dress to six other police offers in a WhatsApp group message, all of which could face charges if it is found that they further circulated the shot.
“I am appalled an employee of Victoria Police has taken these photographs,” Deputy Commissioner Shane Patton said on Monday.
“It is unacceptable conduct. It is appalling conduct and there is no place for it in our organisation.
“This is a breach of privacy, a breach of human rights and we are taking the matter extremely seriously.”
