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Court of Appeal Rules Police Can Use Unproved Allegations in Vetting

1/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Court of Appeal ruled police forces may consider unproved allegations during vetting of officers.
The ruling overturned a High Court decision and aligns with Home Office regulations issued in May 2025, and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley criticized the Met Police Federation for funding an officer’s legal action.
The Met Police is reviewing officers under Operation Assure and applying the vetting framework to boost standards and public trust.

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Story summary

The Court of Appeal ruled police forces may consider unproved allegations during vetting of officers.
The ruling overturned a High Court decision and aligns with Home Office regulations issued in May 2025, and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley criticized the Met Police Federation for funding an officer’s legal action.
The Met Police is reviewing officers under Operation Assure and applying the vetting framework to boost standards and public trust.