Hampshire Police Slammed for Stonewalling Over Corruption Probe
Five Officers Suspended, Details Locked Down
Hampshire Police face fierce criticism over a secretive cover-up after refusing to reveal details about allegations that led to five officers being suspended. One suspended cop is a former Isle of Wight officer. The probe has dragged on for more than two years, with the suspended officers still drawing full pay.
Whistleblower Sparks Undercover Racism Investigation
The scandal first broke in February when it emerged the force was investigating 16 officers and three civilian employees. A whistleblower accused them of using “inappropriate and prejudiced” language and behaviour. Last year, a covert sting operation planted hidden recording devices inside the force’s investigation centre, catching officers making racist and homophobic remarks.
Hampshire Police Refuse to Spill the Dirt
Journalists tried to get to the bottom of the scandal with a Freedom of Information request for complaints lodged since August 2017, plus updates on the racist and homophobic allegations. Hampshire Police slammed the FOI request shut, saying it would cost too much and a “large review” by hand was needed to search complaints by location.
A Hampshire Police spokesman said: “There is no means to search for complaints by location for that offence. All complaints during the period would need to be reviewed manually to see if they took place in the investigation centre and are part of the probe.”
Public Demands Transparency Over Lingering Probe
Critics say the force’s refusal to share information stinks of cover-up and calls for full transparency grow louder as the investigation ticks into its third year.
