The abuse of power shown by rapist PC David Carrick is “absolutely despicable” and urgent action must be taken, the prime minister has told the head of the Met Police.
Rishi Sunak said he’d had “constructive” talks with Sir Mark Rowley and “made clear to him – and he agrees – that the abuse of power that we’ve seen this week is absolutely despicable and it needs to be addressed immediately”.
Carrick who was an officer for more than 20 years – was found to be one of Britain’s most prolific sex offenders after he admitted dozens of rapes and sexual offences following attacks on 12 women.
Mr Sunak said all forces had been asked to see if anyone of concern had managed to slip through staff vetting procedures.
He said checks had been “significantly strengthened” in recent years and that the government was ensuring every force now has “best in class” vetting – which will be “independently inspected very quickly”.
Mr Sunak said he’s confident Carrick would not have passed the new checks.
