Allegations of Misuse of Public Funds by Undercover Officer Carlo Soracchi

Carlo Soracchi, a former undercover police officer, is facing serious allegations regarding his use of public funds for a romantic trip to Venice with a woman he had deceived into a long-term relationship. The claims emerged during the ongoing spycops public inquiry, which investigates the actions of undercover officers infiltrating political groups in the UK. Soracchi, who operated from 2000 to 2006, allegedly posed as an activist while infiltrating socialist and anti-fascist organizations.

The Guardian

Internal documents presented at the inquiry indicate that the Metropolitan Police funded the trip under the pretense of facilitating discussions between UK campaigners and Italian socialists. However, Lindsey, the woman involved, testified that the trip was purely romantic, with the couple spending three days together exploring Venice, contrary to the official narrative of political engagement.

The Guardian

Lindsey described her relationship with Soracchi, stating that she fell in love with him in 2001 and would not have consented to the relationship had she known he was an undercover officer. She recounted how Soracchi surprised her with plane tickets to Venice, expressing feelings of being cherished during the trip. Additionally, Lindsey was one of three women with whom Soracchi engaged in intimate relationships while undercover, including a two-year relationship with Donna McLean, during which he proposed.

The Guardian

Both women provided evidence to the inquiry, claiming that Soracchi had misled them about his identity and intentions. They described a series of lies he told throughout their relationships, raising ethical concerns about the conduct of undercover officers.

The Guardian

In response to the allegations, Soracchi stated that the Special Demonstration Squad, the covert police unit he was part of, authorized and financed the trip for the purpose of engaging with socialist activists in Italy. He claimed that the trip was intended for "legend enhancement" and to assess connections between the Socialist party and Italian anarchist groups. However, Lindsey's testimony contradicted this, as she confirmed that no meetings with Italian activists occurred during their stay.

The Guardian

The inquiry also revealed that Soracchi's supervisor, DS Stephen Beels, traveled separately to Italy at the same time, with the police also covering his travel expenses.

The Guardian

The actions of Soracchi and the broader practices of undercover policing have drawn significant criticism. The inquiry highlights the ethical implications of using public funds for personal relationships under the guise of police work. Critics argue that such practices undermine public trust in law enforcement and raise questions about the accountability of undercover operations.

The Guardian

While Soracchi maintains that the trip was sanctioned for legitimate police purposes, Lindsey's testimony raises doubts about the authenticity of these claims. The inquiry has yet to disclose the total cost of the trip, leaving a gap in understanding the financial implications of Soracchi's actions.

The Guardian

• “I remember feeling so overwhelmed and flattered that he had organised this for us. I felt loved,” — Lindsey, Testifying at the Inquiry

The Guardian

• “The purpose was for Socialist party activists to hold discussions with Italian activists of similar leanings,” — Carlo Soracchi, in a Written Statement

The Guardian

• “At any point did Soracchi or you meet with any Italian anarchist groups or Italian activists when you were in Italy?” — Hannah Wyatt, Inquiry Lawyer

The Guardian

• “No.” — Lindsey, Responding to Inquiry Questions

The Guardian