Record number of UK police forces are failing and need intensive help
GuardianFeb 03, 2022
England and Wales police have sacked 593 officers in the year ending March 2024, up 50% from the previous year. Some 12.5% of them were dismissed over sexual misconduct and many for sharing offensive WhatsApp messages about rape, domestic violence, and killing black children.
The College of Policing's Police Barred List shows 125 cases of dishonesty — reportedly the most common reason for being sacked. Eighteen of those removed possessed indecent images of children. Most sackings were reported in Metropolitan Police and Greater Manchester Police.
Some 88% of those who were barred from any law enforcement role were constables, according to the College of Policing, which reportedly lays down the standards for England and Wales's 43 police forces.
The crisis in London policing falls squarely on Mayor Sadiq Khan's shoulders as the primary accountability officer for the Metropolitan Police, marking the first time in history the force has entered special measures under his watch.
The Conservative government's massive cuts over twelve years have resulted in the loss of 21,000 experienced officers nationwide, forcing their replacement with newer, inexperienced personnel, despite City Hall's efforts to maintain staffing levels.