The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has initiated investigations into 10 current and former officers and staff from the Metropolitan Police Service. This action follows serious concerns about their handling of allegations against David Carrick, a convicted serial rapist.
David Carrick was sentenced to life imprisonment in February for committing horrific sexual assaults on 12 women over a period of 17 years. Carrick abused his position as a police officer to carry out these crimes.
The IOPC is investigating five serving Met officers, whose ranks range from detective constable to chief inspector. These officers face inquiries into gross misconduct. In addition, a former Met officer now serving with the City of London Police, two retired Met officers, a serving Met staff member, and a serving police constable are also under investigation for serious misconduct failures.
IOPC Regional Director Mel Palmer stated that the watchdog’s review uncovered “multiple alleged failings” by police involved in the earlier investigations and assessments of Carrick’s offences. Palmer said, “If these matters had been properly dealt with at the time, Carrick might have been kicked out of the police years before his arrest.”
The Metropolitan Police have publicly acknowledged missing opportunities to identify Carrick through their internal misconduct processes. This admission has caused public outrage.
A Met Police spokesperson expressed deep regret and commitment to addressing the issue. They said, “We are absolutely committed to rooting out those who corrupt our integrity and have no place in policing. We welcome independent scrutiny as we work to rebuild public trust in the Met.”
The IOPC investigations will determine whether formal disciplinary action should be taken against the officers and staff involved. Earlier this year, the Met Police requested the IOPC to review all handling of matters related to Carrick, indicating a significant internal review is underway.
This case highlights a serious breach of trust within the police force and underscores the importance of timely action to protect victims and maintain public confidence.
Originally published by UKNIP.
