Fundraiser Rallies for Cops Sacked Over Olympics Stop and Search
An online fundraiser has sprung up backing two Met Police officers, PC Jonathan Clapham and PC Sam Franks, who were recently FIRED for misconduct during a stop and search of Olympic athletes Ricardo dos Santos and Bianca Williams.
Officers Dismissed Over Fake Cannabis Claims
The disciplinary hearing found the pair guilty of gross misconduct for fabricating claims they smelled cannabis during the July 4, 2020, incident in Maida Vale, west London. The stop and search drew public outrage after dos Santos and Williams were pulled over with their three-month-old baby.
From £2k Goal to Nearly £20k in Donations
Launched just yesterday on JustGiving under the name “1 UK,” the fundraiser aimed to help the officers through the ongoing cost of living crisis. Setting a modest £2,000 target, the page has now raised a staggering £19,470, with contributions flooding in from retired cops and other supporters.
“The officers could struggle with mortgage payments, food bills, and day-to-day living expenses during these tough economic times,” says the fundraising statement.
Other Cops Cleared in Same Incident
Although Clapham and Franks faced dismissal, three other officers involved were cleared of any wrongdoing. The case and fundraiser continue to spark heated debate over police conduct and public trust.
