Government ‘Absolutely Determined’ to Stop Sarah Everard Murderer Wayne Couzens from Receiving Police Pension
The Government has declared it is "absolutely determined" to prevent convicted murderer Wayne Couzens from receiving a pension from the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC), the specialised police force he previously worked for. Efforts to forfeit this pension continue more than four years after his conviction, highlighting a protracted legal battle.
Background of the Case
Wayne Couzens, a former armed Metropolitan Police officer, abducted, raped, and murdered Sarah Everard, a 33-year-old woman, in March 2021. He used his police-issue handcuffs and warrant card to stage a fake arrest, exploiting his position of trust. In September 2021, he received a whole-life order, meaning he will never be released from prison.
Couzens had joined the Metropolitan Police from the CNC in 2018, where he had served for approximately seven years. This dual service history complicates the pension forfeiture process, as it involves multiple authorities and legal frameworks.
Legal Complexities and Government Action
While prisoners are automatically barred from claiming the state pension, there is no such automatic prohibition for other pensions, including those from police forces. This legal gap has necessitated a complex and ongoing process to forfeit Couzens' CNC pension.
The Government has stated that ministers are prepared to introduce new legislation if necessary to ensure Couzens does not receive this pension. A Government spokesperson emphasised, "We are absolutely determined that Wayne Couzens does not receive a Civil Nuclear Constabulary pension, and are actively working on it."
Previous Pension Forfeiture and Current Challenges
In 2023, London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan successfully applied to revoke any pension payments Couzens might have earned during his time at the Metropolitan Police. However, the CNC presents a unique challenge because it falls under the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), unlike most police forces which are overseen by the Home Secretary.
The CNC itself cannot forfeit pensions directly. Instead, the force has recommended to the UK Atomic Energy Authority, its pension authority, that any entitlements arising from Couzens’ service at the CNC should be forfeited. This pension is estimated to be worth around £7,000 per year.
Lack of Precedent and Ongoing Efforts
Data obtained through a freedom of information request revealed that there were no pension forfeitures from the CNC between 2020 and September 2025, indicating a lack of precedent in such cases. This absence of prior actions may contribute to the delays and complexities in the current legal proceedings.
The Government's commitment to blocking Couzens' pension reflects broader public outrage and a desire for justice in the wake of Sarah Everard's murder. As efforts continue, the case underscores the need for clearer regulations and swifter actions in forfeiting pensions for individuals convicted of heinous crimes while in positions of public trust.
