A PC sent a string of text messages tipping off a suspected drug dealer that his home was to be raided.

Maidstone Crown Court was told Grania Hale contacted friend Chelsea Chalmers to warn her that Sussex Police officers were planning to search the home she shared with her partner, who was suspected of selling drugs.

Yesterday Hale admitted wilful misconduct in a public office, an offence which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.

The 34-year-old, who was a PC with the Haywards Heath neighbourhood response team, sent text messages to Ms Chalmers warning her officers were going to raid her home.

She was suspended from her duties after being charged with misconduct and resigned from the force shortly after.

Hale was bailed to an address in Crawley, and told to report to Haywards Heath police station and surrender her passport.

She will be sentenced on November 18.