Met Commander Caught Refusing Drugs Test in Shocking Misconduct Case
Commander Julian Bennett has been found guilty of gross misconduct after a long Met Police investigation into his refusal to take a drugs test.
Independent Panel Slams Bennett’s ‘Deplorable’ Conduct
The verdict came from an independent panel on Tuesday, 31 October, declaring that Bennett’s actions fell well below the standards expected of a senior officer.
Assistant Commissioner Barbara Gray blasted Bennett’s behaviour: “Julian Bennett’s actions were deplorable. He was a senior officer and showed complete disregard and disrespect for the standards we must all uphold.”
She added: “The public will justifiably be outraged that any police officer, especially one of such rank, refused a lawful order to take a drugs test.”
Gray highlighted how Bennett, an experienced officer who chaired misconduct hearings himself, “knew full well what was required” but chose to ignore it. His defiance, she said, “has further damaged public trust and the confidence of our own officers in their leaders.”
Three Years to Justice – And Counting
The panel was fully independent, chaired by legal experts and officials from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services — with no Met officers involved.
Assistant Commissioner Gray criticised the length of the process: “It is hard to comprehend that it has taken more than three years for this case to conclude.”
She welcomed the Home Office’s recent police dismissal review aimed at fixing delays in cases like this. “In the last year, the Met has moved to accelerated misconduct hearings to fast track clear-cut cases and sack officers much faster,” she said.
What Happened? The Facts Behind the Fallout
- On 21 July 2020, Commander Bennett refused to provide a urine sample for drugs testing.
- Police had reasonable cause to suspect he had taken drugs.
- He was suspended three days later on 24 July 2020.
- The panel ruled Bennett breached professional standards on integrity, obedience, and conduct — declaring his actions gross misconduct.
- Two other allegations — smoking cannabis off-duty and lying about his refusal — were not proven.
Commander Bennett will be added to the College of Policing’s Barred List, banning him from working in any police or related public roles.
