The Slow Newscast Broken ranks: civil war in the police fed
Apr 29, 2025
John Simpson, the Home Affairs Editor for The Observer, shares insights into the troubled history of the Police Federation. He discusses how this powerful organization, which represents police officers, has strayed from its mission. Key topics include the dysfunctional internal culture marked by fear and reluctance to address misconduct, the diminishing influence of the Federation, and the disconnection between leadership and officers. Simpson dives into the challenges police face today and the urgent need for reform within this crucial institution.
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Sergeant Di Maria's Legal Challenge
- Sergeant Lino Di Maria faced multiple serious allegations yet was never charged or disciplined.
- His legal challenge against the Met's vetting failure highlights flaws in police dismissal processes.
Impact of Sarah Everard Case
- The murder of Sarah Everard by a Met officer shattered public trust in policing.
- Repeated police misconduct cases have deepened the crisis of confidence in law enforcement.
Vetting Challenges in Policing
- The Met discovered many officers with red flags missed, prompting vetting reviews and revocations.
- Despite this, legal barriers previously prevented dismissing unfit officers without misconduct proof.