The Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Sir Mark Rowley, is facing a formal misconduct investigation by the police watchdog over allegations he failed to adequately address complaints about officers' conduct in several high-profile cases.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed it has launched a investigation into Britain's most senior police officer following two referrals from the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC). The probe centres on whether Sir Mark appropriately handled complaints about officers linked to the cases of former PC David Carrick and another officer who was convicted of crimes.
Watchdog Examines Complaint Handling
According to the IOPC, the investigation will examine whether Sir Mark's decisions regarding the handling of these complaints were reasonable and proportionate. The watchdog emphasised that opening an investigation does not mean that misconduct proceedings will necessarily follow.
An IOPC spokesperson stated: "We will now carry out a thorough and independent assessment of these matters to determine whether or not the Commissioner's actions were appropriate and in accordance with the police standards of professional behaviour."
Carrick Case Background
The investigation comes in the wake of the David Carrick scandal, where the armed officer was revealed to be one of Britain's most prolific sex offenders despite numerous complaints about his behaviour over nearly two decades. Carrick was sentenced to life in prison in February 2023 after admitting 49 offences, including 24 counts of rape.
The case raised serious questions about the Met's failure to identify and remove dangerous officers from its ranks, despite multiple opportunities to do so.
Mayor's Office Raises Concerns
The Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime referred the matters to the IOPC after reviewing how Sir Mark handled complaints about officers connected to these cases. A spokesperson for London Mayor Sadiq Khan said they would not comment further while the investigation is ongoing.
The Metropolitan Police has acknowledged the investigation, stating: "The Met is aware of the IOPC's decision to investigate two complaints referrals from MOPAC relating to the handling of complaints against officers. The Commissioner will cooperate fully with the IOPC."
Ongoing Scrutiny of Met Leadership
This investigation represents another significant challenge for Sir Mark, who took over leadership of the Met in September 2022 with a promise to reform the force and root out misconduct. The probe adds to the intense scrutiny facing Britain's largest police force, which has been plagued by a series of scandals involving officer behaviour and institutional failures.
The outcome of the IOPC investigation could have significant implications for the leadership of the Metropolitan Police and public confidence in the force's ability to address misconduct within its ranks.
