An independent assessment published on Tuesday revealed that the Metropolitan Police in London is institutionally racist, sexist, and homophobic. Also unable to govern itself, putting pressure on the incoming head of the biggest police force in the United Kingdom.
In 2021, a serving officer was convicted of the rape and murder of a young woman, Sarah Everard. The case drew a spotlight on the culture of the police, sparking an inquiry by the then-head, Cressida Dick.
The head of the study, Louise Casey, a member of the upper house of parliament, said “radical” reform was necessary. Severe flaws were discovered across the Met, which employs more than 43,000 officers and staff.
According to the report, “we have unearthed widespread bullying, discrimination, institutional homophobia, sexism, and racism.” Also, “women and children do not get the protection and assistance they need.”
According to the report, female officers feared for their jobs if they spoke out because of the casual manner in which sexist statements were regarded.
A Muslim officer’s boots were stuffed with bacon. A Sikh officer’s beard was shaved by a fellow officer who found it amusing.
Confidence in the police has been “hugely eroded”
Interior Minister Suella Braverman presented a “scathing” report more than two decades after a police probe into the 1999 murder of Black teenager Stephen Lawrence revealed widespread prejudice within the force.
According to the research, the greatest impediments to reform are the Met’s insistence on playing defense and refusal to accept the seriousness of its problems.
Mark Rowley, a commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, told reporters: “We have failed both the citizens of London and our own men on the front lines. To put it delicately, I am sorry.”
“As a result of reading, one may experience anger, frustration, and embarrassment, to name a few possible emotions (the report). In addition, he said that the department responsible for upholding the force’s high professional standards had been “bolstered,” a move that he claimed fostered determination.”
According to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, confidence in the police has been “hugely eroded.” Braverman said before Congress that “resolving some of the organization’s tremendous challenges might take years.”
The extensive investigation emphasized a new children’s approach, a women’s protection program, and excellent leadership.
