Inside the Met’s Elite Squad Hunting Corrupt Coppers
DC Zoe Di Carlo is on the frontline of a fierce fight against police corruption. She works in an elite unit within the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS), a special team hand-picked to root out crooked officers and staff. This tight-knit squad also investigates tips from the public via the new Anti-Corruption and Abuse hotline run by Crimestoppers, delivering on the Commissioner’s promise to clean up the Met.
From Crime Fan to Corruption Buster
Zoe, 36, joined the Met right after university in 2008, drawn by a passion for crime and justice sparked by her Mum’s love of crime dramas like Midsomer Murders and Morse. Starting on 999 response calls, she quickly moved into detective work, specialising in domestic abuse, sexual offences, and managing sexual offenders before landing her current role.
“I didn’t have any preconceptions about the DPS team. When some people hear you’re going over to them, they say you’re ‘going to the dark side!’ But I was ready for a new challenge and to use my skills in tough investigations,” Zoe revealed.
She admits many are shocked that corrupt cops exist at all, especially when trusted officers commit horrific abuses at home or beyond the badge. But for Zoe and her team, tackling this ugly truth spurs them on every day.
The Pressure, The Pain, And The Passion
Dealing with police misconduct is tricky and complex; none of the team had experience in misconduct regulations at first. But their passion and collaboration made them tough and effective.
“We’re driven by justice. It’s tough arresting a fellow officer and taking their warrant card, knowing their life could be ruined. But being brilliant at work or having kids doesn’t excuse abuse or corruption. Everyone deserves a fair and thorough investigation, complainants and officers alike.”
Investigations can drag on for months, but Zoe says they’re committed to moving as fast as possible while ensuring no stone is left unturned. They even have a phone download system cutting evidence analysis from months to weeks.
Calling On The Public’s Eyes And Ears
Zoe urges the public to come forward, no matter how scary it feels to report an officer. “People think nothing will happen or they won’t be believed. But we’re ready, waiting, and will take every tip seriously. You can’t police what officers do behind closed doors, so we need your help to expose the bad apples.”
Sometimes one complaint uncovers layers of wrongdoing, turning simple cases into complex investigations. It’s intense, but it keeps the job gripping and meaningful. Zoe is studying for a Masters in Forensic Psychology and enjoys gigs and crime novels to unwind.
Ruthless On Corruption, But Fair And Focused
The bottom line for Zoe and her squad is simple:
- Racist, homophobic or abusive cops don’t belong on the beat.
- Sexual offenders and bullies who make colleagues fearful must be shown the door.
She dismisses fears that loyalty to the “blue line” means ignoring misconduct.
“This isn’t a witch hunt. Good officers have nothing to fear. Don’t see reporting as snitching – it’s about protecting the force and the public. If you’re concerned, come forward and trust we’ll uncover the truth.”
For Zoe and her team, cleansing the Met of corruption is tough but vital work. As she puts it, “We’re not perfect, but we’re doing everything we can to make things right.”
