As someone who has been fighting the cancer of police sexual misconduct for more than two decades, I am increasingly frustrated by the tone of the debate (Don’t tell me that David Carrick’s crimes were ‘unbelievable’. The problem is victims aren’t believed, 17 January).
At the risk of stating the blindingly obvious, this is only marginally to do with vetting and recruitment. The core issue is the parlous state of leadership in the police service, from the most illustrious chief constable to the newest sergeant. All are leaders and all bear responsibility for the officers who work with and for them. True leaders are always accountable, and should welcome that accountability.
Until the late 1990s, there was a specific police disciplinary offence of “failing to supervise”, which carried the ultimate sanction of dismissal for junior and senior leaders. The reintroduction of such an offence would have a profound effect, once a few sergeants, inspectors, superintendents and, dare I say, chief constables were shown the door for failing to deal with offenders in their ranks. It would certainly encourage the others.
David Gilbertson
Former deputy assistant commissioner, Metropolitan police
