MORE than 80 police officers in Scotland are being investigated over allegations of sexual misconduct and racism, it has been revealed.
News of a Police Scotland probe follows weeks of scrutiny into the Metropolitan Police in London which was found to be institutionally racist, misogynistic and homophobic.
Last week’s 363-page report into the Met by Louise Casey detailed disturbing stories of sexual assaults - which were usually covered up or downplayed - and said the force could be dismantled if it does not improve.
Figures obtained under Freedom of Information show 54 officers in Scotland are being investigated for sexual misconduct, with 29 of them suspended from duty and eight more on restricted duties.
The complaints are believed to range from sexual assault to making inappropriate comments.
Another 29 police officers are being probed over racism, with three suspended and two put on restricted duties. The complaints are believed to include allegations of racially aggravated conduct.
Sandy Brindley (below), chief executive of Rape Crisis Scotland, said: “Making the decision to report a sexual crime can be difficult. It is not made easier by the prospect the person you are reporting it to could themselves be a perpetrator.
“Nothing less than zero tolerance of sexual misconduct from Police Scotland is good enough.”
A report last month found more than half of sexual misconduct complaints against officers in Scotland – 63% – related to incidents while on duty.
