AN INTERNAL investigation is under way at Gwent Police after a member of the public claimed to have found a police document left in McDonald’s detailing a Newport man’s personal details and criminal history.

The Police Standards Department are following up a probe after an anonymous Argus reader sent in a printed email they claim to have found in a McDonald’s after officers had breakfast there.

The person who found the email in the McDonald’s restaurant said it was left there after eight officers allegedly had breakfast at the fast food chain.

The person, who sent the document to the Argus anonymously, said: “They were overheard discussing confidential information.”

The email details the name and address of a member of the public the officers are requested to visit, as well as a previous shoplifting conviction.

A Gwent Police spokeswoman said: “Gwent Police makes every effort to ensure staff are aware of their responsibilities regarding data protection.

“The vast majority of staff and officers adhere to policies and the force regularly reminds them of their responsibilities including the potential consequences if policies are breached. When there are breaches, or potential breaches, they are investigated and dealt with appropriately.

“Now that this has been brought to our attention we will be carrying out enquiries.”