More than 50 police officers in the West Midlands have been disciplined for using police computer systems to check up on people for personal reasons.

Some officers have been sacked, fined, or handed written warnings, and others have been reduced in rank after being caught obtaining information for private use between 2005 and 2010, or for passing information on to unauthorised people.

Figures released under the Freedom of Information Act show 51 officers have been disciplined during that time.

Of the 13 cases finalised last year a Detective Constable, Pc and three PCSOs were all dismissed without notice.

Five Pcs were given written warnings while another Pc was given a final written warning. Two special constables were also given “management advice”.

The figures show that 11 cases were finished in 2009, seven in 2008, 10 in 2007, seven in 2006 and three in 2005 – including an Inspector who was given a fine.