Trainee Detective Constable Charged Over Off-Duty Row with Woman Driver
Trainee Detective Constable Ajitpal Lotay, attached to London’s South East Command Unit, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 30 November. He faces a charge under Section 4A of the Public Order Act after a clash while off duty in SW18 back in February 2022.
Off-Duty Altercation Sparks Police Probe
During the incident, T/DC Lotay confronted a lone female driver, producing his warrant card and demanding she move her car. The woman snapped a picture of Lotay and his vehicle, then reported the encounter to the police, worried he might be an imposter.
Investigation Leads to Charges
Lotay was stopped in June 2022 driving the same vehicle. After being interviewed under caution, he was formally charged.
Met Police Slams Officer’s Conduct
Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry, South East Command Unit, said: “T/DC Lotay’s behaviour was utterly wrong. He identified himself as an officer and was rude and aggressive to the female driver, who was so concerned about his behaviour that she reported it thinking he may be bogus.
“The Met is driven by the values of professionalism, integrity, courage and compassion. We only want the best and will always act when our employees fall below the exemplary standards we and the public expect.”
The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards is handling the case. Lotay has been placed on restricted duties. Now that criminal proceedings are over, he faces a misconduct hearing.
