Startling revelations from the Metropolitan Police indicate that more than 1,000 of its officers are currently suspended or on restricted duties, marking a significant challenge for the force. Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy, speaking to reporters, acknowledged that in the coming years, around 60 officers could potentially face dismissal each month.
Assistant Commissioner Cundy provided further details, explaining that among the officers in question, 30 are undergoing misconduct proceedings, while the remaining half are being examined for alleged incompetence. He emphasised that there are “undoubtedly hundreds” of staff within the Metropolitan Police whom the force has “real concerns about.”
Disturbingly, some officers facing criminal charges are not expected to go to trial until 2025, a situation that prolongs the resolution of these cases. Among the suspended or restricted officers, 275 are awaiting gross misconduct hearings, with a significant number of these cases involving alleged violence against women and girls.
The Metropolitan Police, one of the largest police forces in the United Kingdom, employs approximately 34,000 officers. Currently, 201 officers are suspended, with an additional 860 on restricted duties. Assistant Commissioner Cundy acknowledged the gravity of these numbers, stating, “That’s over 1,000 police officers – nearly the size of a small police force in other places in the country.”
He also emphasised that addressing this issue is a top priority, with the force committed to taking swift action. “This is going to take one, two, or more years to root out those who are corrupt,” he added.
Over the past year, the Metropolitan Police has witnessed a surge in officer dismissals for gross misconduct, with a 66% increase compared to the usual rate. Additionally, the number of reports of alleged misconduct, submitted by both the public and fellow officers, has doubled.
In response to these concerning developments, Home Secretary Suella Braverman announced plans to facilitate the dismissal of rogue officers. These measures include implementing a presumption that those found guilty of gross misconduct will face termination, streamlining the process of removing individuals who breach their professional responsibilities.
