A Queensland sergeant with an "exemplary history" spanning nearly 40 years has resigned in embarrassment after being caught looking up family members on the police computer.
Michael Hedley Schodel, 57, pleaded guilty in a Brisbane court on Monday to one count of using a restricted computer and gaining "a benefit namely knowledge".
Schodel accessed the system to modify one daughter's address and connect himself as another daughter's next-of-kin, Brisbane Magistrates Court was told.
He also accessed his brother's information to show recruits and younger officers mugshots illustrating the effect of drug use on one's appearance.
Schodel was charged over 10 events - some he couldn't recall - occurring sporadically over two-and-a-half years from December 2016.
The officer served in Queensland police for 39 years, receiving medals, citations and awards including one for bravery when he apprehended criminals after being being hit by a vehicle.
His lawyer Calvin Gnech said Schodel was "highly embarrassed and ashamed".
"He is so embarrassed he's refused to return to work," Mr Gnech added.
Schodel intended to continue to work until the mandatory retirement age of 60 for police officers, but has instead handed in his retirement papers.
"Unfortunately after a long and distinguished career he's finishing it on this note before the court," Mr Gnech said.
Magistrate Judith Daley said Schodel's history was exemplary and previously unblemished.
"He is an experienced police officer," she added. "He should have known better that you can't access it for any means."
Schodel was fined $1000 and no conviction was recorded.
