Former Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officer Adnan Ali was convicted today (Monday 24 April 2023) of multiple sexual assaults and misconduct offences involving vulnerable young men and women in GMP’s Volunteer Police Cadet Scheme between 2015 and 2018.
Ali pleaded guilty to five counts of sexual assault and 15 counts of misconduct in public office. His arrest and suspension occurred in October 2018 following a complaint about inappropriate behaviour towards a 16-year-old boy. A detailed investigation uncovered thousands of incriminating messages and revealed additional victims, leading to charges confirmed by the Crown Prosecution Service in July 2021.
The judge is scheduled to sentence Ali at a later date. Meanwhile, GMP’s Chief Constable dismissed Ali last year for gross misconduct and barred him from policing. The force is also seeking to have the Deputy Mayor revoke Ali’s pension.
Assistant Chief Constable Colin McFarlane stated, “No one should suffer crime or misconduct from police officers, especially young people in our cadet scheme. We are sorry that Ali was not better supervised and managed.” He added, “Thanks to the victims and witnesses who bravely supported the case. We will continue to support them fully.”
McFarlane also confirmed that a full review of the Volunteer Police Cadet Scheme is underway with national oversight to improve safeguards and ensure leaders serve as proper role models.
Chief Superintendent Mike Allen, head of GMP’s Professional Standards, acknowledged that the verdict would not immediately ease public concerns. He said, “Ali is a rare, rotten apple who damages trust in policing. But he is being rooted out thanks to vigilant colleagues and thorough investigations.”
GMP is re-vetting all officers and staff to ensure only those fit and proper wear the uniform. Covert teams are actively pursuing corrupt personnel to protect public trust. Allen added, “Restoring professional standards won’t happen overnight, but we guarantee relentless efforts to uphold the Code of Ethics and deliver outstanding service to Greater Manchester.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
