Six officers from the Metropolitan Police have been dismissed after a misconduct panel found them responsible for sharing more than 400 offensive WhatsApp messages in 2019. The messages included racial slurs, derogatory remarks about crime victims, and lewd comments about fellow officers.
None of the officers reported the abusive content, raising serious concerns about the culture within the force. Commander Jon Savell from the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards condemned the messages as “utterly unacceptable.” He stated, “Anyone with a shred of decency would struggle to read this disgusting language, let alone send it. These officers should be ashamed. These messages show attitudes that have no place in the Met.”
The misconduct panel found that the officers breached multiple standards, including discreditable conduct, disrespect, failure to challenge improper behaviour, and discrimination. The offensive messages targeted various London communities and included racial abuse directed at a colleague. Out of thousands of messages, only one officer challenged the content.
In addition to professional consequences, three officers—Joel Borders, Jonathon Cobban, and William Neville—faced criminal charges under the Communications Act 2003 for sending grossly offensive messages. Borders and Cobban were convicted, while Neville was acquitted at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in September last year.
James Berry, counsel for the police chiefs, described the messages as “an abomination” that brings “deep shame on the police service.” He emphasized that the misconduct proceedings are crucial for restoring public trust.
The following officers have been banned from police and related jobs and added to the Barred List:
- Former PCs Joel Borders, Jonathon Cobban, William Neville, and serving PC Gary Bailey
- PC Matthew Forster (Civil Nuclear Constabulary), dismissed without notice for similar misconduct
- Former PC Daniel Comfort (Norfolk Constabulary), who would have been dismissed if still in post
The Metropolitan Police has strengthened its anti-corruption teams and encourages the public to report any “rogue officers.” While reform will take time, the force is committed to rooting out members who tarnish the reputation of the police.
This scandal highlights how some officers betrayed the trust of Londoners through vile behaviour in private WhatsApp groups. The Met now faces the challenge of rebuilding its reputation and demonstrating a serious commitment to cleaning house.
Originally published by UKNIP.
