Two Ex-Met Cops Sentenced for Sick Crime Scene Snap Scandal
Deniz Jaffer, 47, and Jamie Lewis, 33, former PCs at the North East Basic Command Unit, have been sentenced at the Old Bailey after pleading guilty to misconduct in public office. The pair shamelessly took disrespectful photos at the murder scene of sisters Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman.
Shocking Abuse of Police Trust
Assistant Commissioner Helen Ball slammed the officers, saying: “The actions of these two officers caused so much additional pain and distress to the families during their darkest hour. Their behaviour was utterly unprofessional, disrespectful and deeply insensitive.” The Met described their actions as “shameful”.
Following a misconduct hearing on 24 November, PC Lewis was sacked without notice. Jaffer resigned before he could be dismissed but would have faced the same fate. Both men are now on the College of Policing’s Barred List, banning them from any policing or emergency services roles.
Disgusting WhatsApp ‘Selfie’ from Crime Scene
- On 6 June 2020, Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman were found murdered in Fryent Country Park, Wembley.
- During the early hours of 8 June, Jaffer and Lewis, guarding the crime scene, left their posts to snap photos on their mobiles.
- They shared images via WhatsApp — including a vile ‘selfie’ Lewis made, placing his face in front of the victims’ bodies.
- The officers called the sisters “dead birds” in messages, showing shocking disrespect.
Fast-Track Investigation and Tough Lessons
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched an investigation after an anonymous tip-off. Both officers were arrested on 22 June 2020 and charged in April 2021. They pleaded guilty in November 2021.
The Met moved swiftly to remind its entire force about social media conduct and ethical behaviour. Two key learning points were highlighted:
- All officers must follow the Code of Ethics on and off duty to maintain public trust.
- Senior management must actively root out inappropriate behaviour and foster a culture where misconduct is challenged and reported.
These reforms are now in place across the North East Command and the wider Met Police. Baroness Louise Casey has been commissioned to review the Met’s culture and behaviour standards to restore faith in the force.
The Met encouraged anyone — officers or public — to report wrongdoing. “The disgraceful behaviour of Jaffer and Lewis only came to light thanks to a concerned whistleblower,” said a spokesperson. “We will continue to act on all such reports.”
