Two retired Metropolitan Police officers have been charged with possessing child sex abuse images in a shocking scandal connected to a serving chief inspector who was found dead before he could appear in court.
Richard Watkinson, a chief inspector nicknamed ‘Sir Smashy’ after a Harry Enfield character, is believed to have taken his own life. Police discovered thousands of highly disturbing child pornography files, along with sex toys and children’s underwear hidden behind a trap door at his home.
Watkinson was found dead by colleagues on the very day he was due to attend court. He faced charges related to a secret stash of child abuse material and boys’ pants locked away in a hidden room.
Scotland Yard had regularly relied on Watkinson for domestic violence talks and media briefings on major drug busts. However, behind the scenes, he was under immense pressure. He was expected to return to court on bail last Thursday over alleged links to an online paedophile ring.
“He was a popular governor, and his arrest shocked everyone,” a former colleague said. Rumours circulated about thousands of images and videos stored behind a trap door at his residence.
“He had been under huge mental strain while on bail and there were concerns he was suicidal. The worst fears were confirmed when he was found dead last week. He may have taken his own life,” the source added.
Timeline of Arrests and Investigation
July 9, 2021: Watkinson was arrested for misconduct, sending obscene messages, misuse of police powers, and breaches of data protection.
July 20, 2021: He was further arrested over conspiracy to distribute child abuse images, voyeurism, and misconduct in public office.
January 12, 2023: The body of a man in his 40s was found at an address in Buckinghamshire following welfare checks. Police stated the death was unexplained but not suspicious.
Wide Police Crackdown After Carrick Horror
This scandal follows the David Carrick case, which shook the force. Former officer Carrick faces life imprisonment for 49 offences against 12 women, including 24 counts of rape.
In response, all UK police forces were ordered to check officers against national databases to identify further offenders. Home Secretary Suella Braverman has called for tougher, clearer, and legally binding police vetting rules from the College of Policing.
If you have been affected by any issues raised in this story, you can call the Samaritans free on 116 123.
Originally published by UKNIP.
