29 April 2023 , 20:16
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The Metropolitan Police has received 10 times more complaints about online sexism and racism than five years ago.
Since 2018, 38 sergeants, 20 inspectors and 383 constables have been reported, figures show.
In that time, a total of 507 complaints were made about staff behaviour on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and in texts, according to data released following a Freedom of Information request.
Last year, 19 reports were made about “inappropriate sexual conduct”, which included making comments about rape and child sexual abuse. This was up from just two in 2018.
And the number of complaints for “discriminatory behaviour” – such as racism, sexism, homophobia and disablism – increased from one in 2018 to 15 in 2022.
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Joel Borders was sentenced for sharing grossly offensive WhatsApp messages with Wayne Couzens (PA)
Jonathan Cobban also sent offensive messages to Wayne Couzens (Central News)Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper branded the figures “deeply troubling” and called for closer checks of social media as part of a complete overhaul of police standards.
It comes following a number of shocking high-profile cases involving Met Police officers in recent years.
Last year, Jonathon Cobban and Joel Borders were jailed for 12 weeks for sharing “grossly racist, sexist and misogynistic” messages on a WhatsApp group with Sarah Everard’s killer Wayne Couzens.
Former Met officer and killer Wane Couzens (PA)A Met Police spokesman said: “We know it will take time to improve our culture and standards. We are strongly encouraging reporting of wrongdoing so we are likely to see figures rise.
“Allegations are thoroughly investigated and subject to a criminal investigation where there is evidence.
“Everyone in the Met is clear that we must root out those who corrupt the integrity of our organisation.”