Five serving Metropolitan Police detectives have been suspended and arrested following shocking allegations of a serious sexual assault at an official Christmas party, the Daily Mail can reveal.
The officers, all from the elite Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command (PaDP), were taken into custody and questioned by professional standards investigators. The unit is responsible for guarding key sites including the Palace of Westminster and diplomatic premises.
Elite Unit Rocked by Allegations
The incident is said to have occurred during a festive gathering last year. A formal complaint was subsequently lodged, triggering a major investigation by the Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS).
The Met confirmed that the five officers – four constables and a sergeant – were first arrested on suspicion of sexual assault in January. They have since been further arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, indicating the serious and complex nature of the inquiry.
Ongoing Criminal and Misconduct Probes
The officers remain on restricted duties while the criminal investigation, led by the DPS, continues. A parallel misconduct investigation is also underway, which will determine their future with the force regardless of the criminal outcome.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson stated: "Five officers were arrested in January 2024 by the Directorate of Professional Standards on suspicion of sexual assault relating to an off-duty incident involving a colleague at a party in December 2023. They were further arrested in April 2024 on suspicion of misconduct in public office. All five have been suspended and the investigation continues."
The case represents another significant blow to the reputation of the Metropolitan Police, particularly its specialist commands, which are held to the highest standards of conduct.
