Met Police End Probe into General Election Betting Scandal
The Metropolitan Police have officially closed their role in the high-profile investigation into bets placed on the date of the General Election. The probe, launched in June, centred on possible breaches of Section 42 of the Gambling Act 2005—relating to cheating—and was conducted alongside the Gambling Commission and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
Misconduct Charges Dropped, Gambling Act Offences in Focus
While the Gambling Commission looked into breaches of the Gambling Act, the Met examined a handful of cases for potential Misconduct in Public Office, with detectives from the Specialist Crime Command leading the review. After a painstaking investigation, police concluded there wasn’t enough evidence to meet the high bar required for misconduct charges.
It was agreed that any criminal offences to pursue should fall under the Gambling Act instead. Consequently, the Met has stepped back, handing the cases back to the Gambling Commission for further action.
Detective Superintendent Katherine Goodwin warned: “These allegations caused a significant dent in public confidence during the election campaign, and it was right that they were investigated to explore all possible offences. While our involvement in the criminal investigation now ceases, it’s important that this is not misinterpreted as an all-clear for those whose cases were looked at.”
Ongoing Scrutiny and Suspect Questionings
The investigation has already seen several suspects questioned under caution. Seven police officers remain under the Gambling Commission’s microscope and are also being reviewed by the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards. The Gambling Commission continues to chase down more documentary and electronic evidence to build its case.
Andrew Rhodes, Chief Executive of the Gambling Commission, stressed the need for confidentiality: “We appreciate the level of public interest in this investigation, but we are unable to comment further at this time.”
Royalty Protection Officer Arrested and Released
An officer with the Royalty and Specialist Protection Command was arrested on suspicion of Misconduct in Public Office but later bailed. No further action will be taken against him for that offence. So far, no additional arrests or caution interviews have been made.
With the Met stepping back, the Gambling Commission will now take the lead in this ongoing probe, determined to get to the bottom of the scandal rocking the 2024 General Election betting scene.
