Det Con Linda Williams has spoken out about Scotland Yard's handling of her rape in 2004 by fellow officer David Carrick, a serial predator jailed in 2023 for attacks against her and 11 other women. Her testimony raises troubling questions about the treatment of victims by the Metropolitan Police, and whether survivors can have confidence in the system.
A Culture of Sexism
Linda said she did not report her rape for years due to the "very sexist" culture at the Metropolitan Police, despite serving as a rape investigation officer in the early 2000s. She said she would not report the rape if it happened tomorrow as she did not trust it would be handled properly.
Her testimony highlights the challenges victims face when coming forward, particularly within an institution tasked with protecting them.
Ongoing Overhaul
The Met has been battling to overhaul its culture after a string of shocking cases, including the murder of Sarah Everard by serving police officer Wayne Couzens, and the sharing of photographs of murdered sisters Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman by officers. A damning report in 2023 found the Met was institutionally racist, misogynistic and homophobic.
Sir Mark Rowley, who took over in 2022, pledged to overhaul the troubled force. He must act urgently to stamp out the rot and ensure victims are always at the forefront of officers' minds.
