Story perspectives

Met Police Faces Vetting Scandal: 130 Officers Unchecked

1/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Metropolitan Police Service faced vetting failures that allowed over 130 officers to serve despite allegations, including serial rapists David Carrick and Cliff Mitchell.
From 2013 to 2023, thousands were improperly vetted due to recruitment-target pressure.
The report found 5,073 officers lacked proper checks, with references unverified.
The Home Secretary called for improved vetting practices to restore public trust.
The Metropolitan Police Service dismissed 1,500 officers to address these issues.

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Story summary

The Metropolitan Police Service faced vetting failures that allowed over 130 officers to serve despite allegations, including serial rapists David Carrick and Cliff Mitchell.
From 2013 to 2023, thousands were improperly vetted due to recruitment-target pressure.
The report found 5,073 officers lacked proper checks, with references unverified.
The Home Secretary called for improved vetting practices to restore public trust.
The Metropolitan Police Service dismissed 1,500 officers to address these issues.