A police officer has appeared in court for the first time since being accused of accessing restricted data and sharing it with individuals suspected of having criminal connections.
Matthew Harris, a 33-year-old constable, sat in the back of Wollongong Local Court on Tuesday morning dressed in a suit and tie as his solicitor, Zali Kelly, mentioned his case.
Harris has been charged with misconduct in public office following an investigation by the Professional Standards Command.
Police allege that Harris unlawfully accessed NSW Police Force information and disclosed it to individuals believed to be linked to criminal elements.
He was arrested in the Illawarra region on March 19 and was granted bail. He has been suspended from his duties without pay.
During the court hearing, Acting Judge Les Mabbutt varied Harris's bail conditions after a request from Ms Kelly. The matter was then adjourned to a date in July.
Harris was excused from attending court on the next occasion.
The case has drawn attention due to the serious nature of the allegations against a serving police officer. The investigation by the Professional Standards Command indicates the police force's commitment to maintaining integrity and accountability within its ranks.
Further developments are expected as the case progresses through the legal system.
