Ex-GMP Chief Inspector Faces Possible Charges Over Arena Bombing Cover-Up
Dale Sexton, the former chief inspector who led Greater Manchester Police’s first response to the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, is now under the spotlight again. The police watchdog suspects he may have committed a criminal offence related to his statements during terror attack reviews.
Secret Operation Plato Declaration Sparks Controversy
Sexton, who retired after the attack, told the 2021 Manchester Arena Inquiry he never felt “overwhelmed” by the tragedy’s aftermath. Yet, he admitted he failed to inform fire and ambulance crews about activating Operation Plato — a critical plan for dealing with armed terrorists — fearing it would slow emergency response.
This secretive move broke protocol and wasn’t disclosed during his 2018 interview for the Kerslake Report, commissioned by Mayor Andy Burnham. When pressed about it, Sexton shockingly admitted he felt he had “almost got away with it on the night.”
Police Watchdog Backs Victims’ Demand for Justice
After families of the victims requested a Victims’ Right to Review, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) upheld concerns that Sexton’s actions could amount to a criminal offence. A second, independent review agreed with the findings.
The IOPC is now set to pass evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to consider potential charges related to Sexton’s account of that fateful night.
Ongoing Scrutiny Over Handling of Manchester Bombing
Previously, Sexton was cleared of professional or criminal misconduct in a separate probe concluded in February. However, the CPS has yet to receive the new evidence file from the IOPC.
Amanda Rowe, Director of Operations at IOPC, said: “The Manchester Arena bombing was a tragic event with a lasting impact. It’s vital that cases are independently reviewed to ensure victims receive justice. The CPS will now decide if criminal charges are warranted.”
The 2017 suicide bombing killed 22 people and left a scar on Greater Manchester. This latest development signals an ongoing quest for accountability over the handling of that horrific night.
