Police staff with links to gangs, sex offenders and drug dealers slipped through vetting net, Home Office told

A watchdog found 13 cases of concern when examining 300 vetting files that police forces handled

The letter laid out the progress police forces have made so far against the 43 recommendations in the watchdog’s November 2022 report (PA Wire)

Police staff with links to organised crime, sex offenders and drug dealers are still slipping through the vetting net despite warnings to tighten up checks, the Home Office has been warned.

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) found 13 cases of concern among 300 vetting files that police forces handled between 1 December 2022 and 31 January 2023, where clearance had been given to “unsuitable applicants”.

The cases included a member of police staff who had a connection with an organised crime group and another who had a history of allegations of domestic abuse against several partners.