Ex-Met Cops Hit with Racist WhatsApp Charges
Six retired Metropolitan Police officers are facing serious charges over racist messages shared on WhatsApp. The ex-officers, who left between 2001 and 2015, have been charged under the Communications Act 2003. They are set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on September 7.
BBC Newsnight Triggers Rapid Met Probe
The scandal blew open after a BBC Newsnight report last October. The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards launched a swift investigation, leading to arrests within hours of the broadcast. The probe uncovered offensive messages exchanged in a private WhatsApp group between August 2018 and September 2022.
Importantly, all six accused were already retired when these messages were sent.
Links to Diplomatic Protection Group
Though these officers served across various Met roles during their careers, a shared connection is their past work with the Diplomatic Protection Group — now renamed the Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command.
Met Commander Vows to Restore Trust
“Most officers are committed to rebuilding the public’s trust,” said Commander James Harman, head of the Met’s Anti-Corruption and Abuse Command. “We must take a strong stance against corrupt and abusive behaviour, no matter who is involved.”
Commander Harman acknowledged the public’s likely concern but stressed the importance of transparency and accountability.
The Charged Men
- Peter Booth, 66, retired April 2001 – four counts of sending grossly offensive racist messages.
- Robert Lewis, 62, retired May 2015 – eight counts of sending grossly offensive racist messages.
- Anthony Elsom, 67, retired May 2012 – three counts.
- Alan Hall, 65, retired June 2015 – three counts.
- Michael Chadwell, 62, retired November 2015 – one count.
- Trevor Lewton, 65, retired August 2009 – one count.
This case shines a harsh light on former officers’ conduct long after retirement, raising urgent questions about accountability within the Met.
