Top Cop Canned Over ‘Historical’ Probe – Resigns Immediately!
IOPC Boss Michael Lockwood Steps Down Amid Secret Investigation
Michael Lockwood, head of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), shocked the force by quitting on Friday over “personal and domestic reasons.” But suspicion mounted after Home Secretary Suella Braverman revealed she had acted following an investigation into a historical allegation against him.
Braverman Demands Resignation or Suspension
Ms Braverman said Lockwood was faced with a stark choice: quit or be suspended. The director general’s resignation was accepted and took effect immediately – with no details released about the allegation. The Home Office is now rushing to set up temporary leadership at the IOPC as the scandal unfolds.
Lockwood: From London Borough Chief to Police Watchdog Boss
Lockwood was the first-ever director general when the IOPC replaced the Independent Police Complaints Commission in 2018. The watchdog investigates the toughest police misconduct cases in England and Wales.
He called his resignation a “great sadness” and said it had been a huge honour to lead the organisation.
Experienced Official With Track Record on Grenfell Recovery
Before the IOPC, Lockwood was chief executive at Harrow Council and helped lead the government’s recovery efforts following the 2017 Grenfell Tower tragedy, liaising with bereaved families and survivors.
He’s a qualified accountant with stints at the National Audit Office and Local Government Association, specialising in finance and policy.
