Retired Met Cops Charged Over Child Abuse Images in Shocking Scandal
Two retired Metropolitan Police officers have been hit with charges over possessing child sex abuse images. This follows a grim probe into a serving chief inspector who was found dead before he could face court.
‘Sir Smashy’ Chief Inspector Found Dead Amid Child Porn Probe
Richard Watkinson, nicknamed ‘Sir Smashy’ after a Harry Enfield character, is believed to have taken his own life. Police found thousands of highly disturbing child porn files, along with sex toys and children’s underwear hidden in a trap door at his home.
Watkinson was discovered dead by colleagues the very day he was due in court. He faced charges linked to a secret stash of child abuse material and boys’ pants locked away in a hidden room.
Popular Police Figure Under Investigation
Scotland Yard regularly relied on Watkinson for domestic violence talks and media briefings on major drug busts. Yet behind the scenes, he was under massive pressure.
He was expected back in court on bail last Thursday over alleged ties to an online paedophile ring.
“He was a popular governor, and his arrest shocked everyone,”
a former colleague commented. There were rumours of thousands of images and videos stashed away behind a trap door at his home.
“He had been under huge mental strain while on bail and there were concerns he was suicidal. The worst fears were confirmed when he was found dead last week. He may have taken his own life,” the source added.
Timeline of Arrests and Investigation
- July 9, 2021: Watkinson arrested for misconduct, sending obscene messages, misuse of police powers, and data protection breaches.
- July 20, 2021: Further arrest over conspiracy to distribute child abuse images, voyeurism, and misconduct in public office.
- January 12, 2023: Body of a man in his 40s found at an address in Buckinghamshire following welfare checks. Death is unexplained but not suspicious, police say.
Wide Police Crackdown After Carrick Horror
The revelations come after the David Carrick scandal rocked the force. Former officer Carrick faces life for 49 offences against 12 women, including 24 counts of rape.
In response, all UK police forces were ordered to check officers against national databases to flush out more bad apples.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman has demanded tougher, clearer, and legally binding police vetting rules from the College of Policing.
If you have been affected by issues raised in this story, you can call the Samaritans free on 116 123.
