The Metropolitan Police has confirmed the investigation into alleged royal security lapses has been widened to include Buckingham Palace and other royal residences
Police probing allegations that royal protection officers dozed off while safeguarding the King at Windsor Castle have broadened their investigation, potentially including Buckingham Palace and other residences.
A total of 23 officers tasked with protecting royals at Windsor Castle have now been issued with misconduct notices, indicating they may face disciplinary proceedings.
The Met revealed that 21 of these officers had been put on restricted duties, following an ‘urgent’ probe by the force’s directorate of professional standards into accusations they abandoned their posts and slept while on duty. These claims first surfaced two weeks ago, leading Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley to characterise the alleged conduct as falling “below the high standards expected of officers, particularly in frontline protective roles”.
They have now confirmed the investigation has expanded. A spokesman said: “The Independent Office for Police Conduct has been informed and concluded that this matter will be investigated locally by the Met.
“At this time, 23 officers have been served with misconduct notices, 21 of whom have been placed on restricted duties. The remaining two are not formally restricted but will not be deployed to any royal residence while the investigation continues.
“As part of the investigation, enquiries are being made as to the conduct of officers on protective duties at other royal residences. This is ongoing.”
It is understood the Royal household has been informed of the developments. Receiving a misconduct notice indicates the officers are being investigated – though this doesn’t necessarily mean they will face disciplinary action.
The officers in question will be asked to provide a written statement outlining their response to the allegations. The investigation team will then decide whether the alleged conduct constitutes misconduct or the more severe charge of gross misconduct, which could result in dismissal if officers are found to have violated standards.
Investigators might also conclude there’s insufficient evidence for the officer to answer, meaning no disciplinary action would follow. Royal protection officers stationed at Windsor Castle are tasked with various duties, including managing access points to the vast Berkshire estate.
Police also carry out walking patrols around the castle, which serves as one of the King’s primary residences and is utilised by other senior royals. The site has experienced multiple attempted security breaches in recent years.
In June, a man in his 30s was arrested after trespassing on the Windsor Castle grounds, near the residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales. Officers confirmed a man was detained on suspicion of trespass on a protected site and possession of Class A drugs.