IOPC update on the investigation into the MPS handling of the Barking & Dagenham murders

The IOPC regional director for London, Sal Naseem, attended our community meeting on 24th January on the deaths of Anthony Walgate, Gabriel Kovari, Daniel Whitworth and Jack Taylor. We asked him for an explanation of the process to decide whether to re-open the IOPC investigation into the MPS handling of the four murders. 

We have received more details this week. [ Full letter ]

The IOPC is aware that "some of the information coming to light was potentially new information". So, they have embarked on an "initial assessment" to see if there are "compelling reasons" to re-open the investigation. There are two criteria that must both be satisfied:

The first criterion:

(1a) There is significant new information that requires further investigation and a real possibility that the new information, had it been available, would have led wholly or partly to different decisions on discipline, performance and/or referral to the CPS;

OR (1b) The original [IOPC] investigation was flawed in a manner which had a material impact on subsequent decisions on discipline, performance and/or referral to the CPS.

The second criterion: 

(2) It is necessary to require a reinvestigation in the public interest.

They are at this "initial assessment" phase. They are unable to give a clear timescale for when this will be completed. 

It is clear that the community is impatient for progress. The LGBT+ Advisory Group will continue to press them for updates.

 

IOPC finds discrimination, harassment and bullying at Charing Cross team

IOPC has found discrimination, harassment and bullying involving officers predominantly based at Charing Cross Police Station. WhatApps messages were found to contain racist, misogynistic and homophobic comments. Officers were using `banter' to excuse unacceptable behaviour.

Fourteen officers were investigated by the IOPC. 

One officers was dismissed for gross misconduct. One other resigned before the end of the investigation. Four officers attended misconduct meetings where allegations of misconduct were proven against two officers. One received a written warning and one received no further action as they had already demonstrated performance improvements. Misconduct was not proven against the two other officers. Two officers were subject to unsatisfactory performance procedures. They attended a formal meeting to discuss their performance and appropriate action going forward. Two officers were subjected to reflective practice to improve their performance. The investigation found no case to answer for the remaining four officers.

We are making it clear to the MPS, after the inquest into the Barking & Dagenham murders, this report further erodes the trust and confidence of the LGBT+ community in the Metropolitan Police. We are committed to working with the MPS to make sure lessons are learnt and actions are taken.

More details at IOPC website: 

https://www.policeconduct.gov.uk/recommendations/thematic-learning-issued-address-cultural-concerns-nine-linked-investigations–

https://www.policeconduct.gov.uk/recommendations/operation-hotton-recommendations-metropolitan-police-service-september-2021