The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has initiated a serious investigation after allegations emerged that a senior Metropolitan Police officer dismissed rape complaints as “regretful sex.” This development has raised significant concerns about public trust in UK policing.
The allegations were brought forward by Professor Betsy Stanko, a Home Office-appointed adviser who leads Operation Soteria, an in-depth inquiry into how police handle rape cases. Professor Stanko claims that Sir Stephen House, who was then Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, made the controversial remark.
Recognising the potential impact on public confidence, the IOPC described the allegations as “of significant public concern” and launched an independent probe. Both the Metropolitan Police and Sir Stephen House have been formally informed about the investigation.
In response, Sir Stephen House strongly denied the allegations, calling the phrase “regretful sex” “abhorrent” and insisting he never made such comments. The ongoing inquiry aims to establish the facts surrounding these serious claims.
Originally published by UKNIP.
