Former Sergeant Frank Partridge, a police officer who served as a licensing officer in Westminster, has been convicted of seven offences, including bribery, following a comprehensive anti-corruption investigation. The three-month trial at Southwark Crown Court resulted in Partridge’s conviction, alongside four others found guilty of bribery.
During the trial, evidence revealed that Partridge accepted bribes, including money and gifts, in exchange for providing favourable recommendations about licensed premises to the Westminster Licensing Unit. By influencing licensing hearings and protecting venues from enforcement actions, Partridge abused his position and compromised the integrity of his role. The Metropolitan Police’s licensing units have since undergone significant transformation to prevent such incidents from occurring again.
Former Sergeant Partridge was dismissed from the Metropolitan Police in April 2016. The conviction is the outcome of a complex and extensive investigation that began in 2013, involving the meticulous examination of thousands of files on digital devices and substantial paper records. The Anti-Corruption and Abuse Command played a crucial role in piecing together the evidence.
Commander James Harman, in charge of Professionalism within the Metropolitan Police, praised the diligence of the investigative team and emphasized the robust approach taken against corruption within the force. He highlighted the significant changes implemented in licensing units to prevent similar abuses of power, and the commitment to holding those who seek to corrupt officers and staff accountable.
The court heard that Partridge, who currently resides in Spain but previously lived in Wing, Buckinghamshire, accepted bribes from four groups connected to venues and security companies in London’s West End. These bribes ranged from free meals, drinks, and tailored clothing to exclusive event tickets and a family holiday worth nearly £7,000. Partridge neglected his duties and downplayed allegations of crimes at certain venues, manipulating information to present a more positive image during licensing hearings.
While the investigation, codenamed Operation Joseph, occurred almost a decade ago, significant changes have since been implemented to enhance the management of corrupt approaches and unintentional corruption among officers. London’s licensed economy, consisting of over 30,000 premises operating around the clock, requires diligent policing to ensure a safe environment for residents and visitors.
Partridge will be sentenced on July 18, while the other individuals convicted of bribery will be sentenced on September 21.
