The Metropolitan Police suffered a major legal defeat after the High Court ruled against overturning a decision that cleared Detective Constable Tyrone Ward of misconduct for accessing confidential files linked to the Sarah Everard murder case. The ruling was handed down in london/">London by Mr Justice Murray in 2024, upholding an independent disciplinary panel’s original findings.
Legal Challenge Dismissed
The force sought judicial review following a November 2024 panel, which found no wrongdoing by DC Ward in viewing sensitive computer logs. Lawyers for Scotland Yard had argued the panel misjudged key evidence and requested the ruling be quashed or a new hearing ordered. The judge rejected these claims, affirming the panel’s decision and its reasoning.
Ward’s Role Confirmed
Mr Justice Murray noted DC Ward did not have a formal duty to check the files but was permitted to monitor custody records proactively within his policing remit. Ward, described by the panel as a “productive and conscientious officer,” said he routinely checked records to identify if high-profile detainees needed investigation by his unit.
Other Officers Investigated
Ward was one of seven officers scrutinised for accessing investigation data without a clear operational need. The disciplinary panel cleared Ward and two others but found three officers guilty of misconduct.
Background To The Case
The files related to the March 2021 abduction, rape, and murder of 33-year-old Sarah Everard by Wayne Couzens, a Metropolitan Police officer who used his police identity to carry out the crime. Couzens is serving a whole-life sentence. The case sparked outrage and intensified debate about police vetting, internal culture, and data security reforms within UK law enforcement.
