Met Police Inspector Busted: Charged with Sexual Assault
Top Cop Arrested Over Sexual Assault Claims
An active Metropolitan Police officer has been hauled into court, facing two counts of sexual assault by touching. Inspector Michael Richards, who works in the Met’s Learning and Development unit, was charged on Sunday, 25 May, over alleged offences that took place on 1 and 17 September.
Richards was arrested while off duty, with the charges involving two adult victims – one man and one woman. The shocking alleged offences reportedly happened on the same day as his arrest.
Suspended and Bailed: Next Court Date Set
Richards appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 23 June. He was granted bail and is due back at Southwark Crown Court on Monday, 21 July. The officer remains suspended from duty while the case plays out.
Met Police Responds: “We Take All Allegations Extremely Seriously”
The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards is closely monitoring the investigation. A spokesperson said:
“We take all allegations of this nature extremely seriously. Inspector Richards remains suspended while criminal proceedings are ongoing.”
Victims are receiving specialised support from dedicated officers.
Met Faces Mounting Pressure Over Police Conduct
This case piles more pressure on the Met, which has struggled to rebuild public trust amid numerous high-profile misconduct scandals. The force is urging anyone with information to come forward, either by contacting the Met directly or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
