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Influential @MentalHealthCop Twitter account reinstated by West Midlands Police

The Twitter account of an influential police inspector has been reinstated after it was suspended over alleged misuse.

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West Midlands Police suspended the account of award-winning Inspector Michael Brown who runs the @MentalHealthCop account, which has around 17,000 followers, on Friday.

The account - a twitter and blog site managed by the response inspector with a keen interest in mental health issues - was suspended following allegations of inappropriate use of direct messaging and social media.

Brown sent his first tweet since his account was reinstated this evening, posting a link to his blog which is now also public.

The suspension provoked an outcry on the social networking site, while West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Bob Jones said he would raise it with the chief constable Chris Sims.

Influential police inspector's Twitter account suspended over alleged misuse

Assistant Chief Constable Garry Forsyth said: "I and my colleagues at West Midlands Police are proud of our social media endeavours, working closely with officers and staff to engage and communicate in new and innovative ways.

"As with any organisation which communicates with the public, we have to ensure that there are parameters around the way information is shared, particular when that information can be sensitive.

"I am pleased that this issue has been resolved in a speedy manner to the satisfaction of those directly involved.

"It would not be fair or proportionate to release any further detail of this investigation. What I can say is that it's time to move on and we're looking forward to return of @MentalHealthCop.

"The real issue here is communicating complex issues in an effective way. I am pleased that @MentalHealthCop will once again be providing views and comment across mental health issues."

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