Two senior officials from the Police Digital Service (PDS) have been arrested on suspicion of fraud and bribery, leading to their suspension from their roles. The PDS, which provides digital solutions and services to all British law enforcement, is owned by police and crime commissioners and funded by the Home Office and police forces.
Arrest Details
The City of London police conducted the arrests as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of fraud, bribery, and misconduct in a public office. In a statement, temporary Det Supt James Halkett said the two individuals had been interviewed and bailed, with the investigation continuing.
“The City of London police are leading a criminal investigation into allegations made against two individuals employed by the company Police Digital Service. The suspects have been arrested for fraud, bribery and misconduct in a public office,” said Det Supt Halkett.
The arrests follow allegations made earlier this year to bodies representing police and crime commissioners and the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC). Detectives had been reviewing the claims for several months before deciding to proceed with arrests.
PDS Response
The PDS confirmed the arrests but did not specify the seniority of the individuals involved. In its statement, PDS emphasized that the suspects have been suspended from work, and an independent human resources consultancy is conducting a misconduct review. The company also announced a thorough review of its operations.
“PDS can confirm that two employees have been arrested on suspicion of fraud, bribery and misconduct in public office. They have been suspended from work pending the outcome of the police investigation, and an employee misconduct review is being conducted by an independent HR consultancy,” the statement read.
Impact and Support Measures
Amid the arrests, senior officials are working to implement temporary replacements to ensure the continued operation of the PDS. Despite the unfolding investigation, PDS assured that its services remain unaffected. The company plays a critical role in supporting UK law enforcement with digital services, including cloud computing, cybersecurity, and IT support, with an annual turnover of over £70 million.
The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners and the NPCC expressed their support for the PDS board in managing the situation and ensuring that the company’s functions continue without disruption.
“The APCC and NPCC received information earlier this year regarding allegations of malpractice concerning individuals at the Police Digital Service. The information was passed to City of London police for review which subsequently led to a criminal investigation,” the statement noted.
Official Reactions
The Home Office acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and expressed support for the PDS’s steps to address the issue. They emphasized the importance of safeguarding public funds and maintaining the continuity of frontline services.
“The Home Office is aware of serious allegations relating to the conduct of two individuals within the Police Digital Service. Given the gravity of these allegations, we are supportive of the steps being taken by the PDS and expect a thorough review will be undertaken,” said a Home Office spokesperson.
Background on PDS
The Police Digital Service coordinates and delivers digital services to UK law enforcement, facilitating the safe use of technology to improve public safety. The PDS is funded through contributions from police forces and the Home Office and collaborates with various stakeholders, including law enforcement organizations, private industry, and public bodies.
In the fiscal year 2022-23, PDS reported a turnover of £74 million and a profit of £2.4 million. The organization has received commendations for its work, with former policing minister Chris Philp highlighting its critical role in supporting the policing community.
“We are huge supporters of PDS at the Home Office. They are doing critical work on behalf of the policing community,” Philp remarked in the last annual report.
The unfolding investigation and the organization’s response will be closely watched as they navigate these allegations and work to maintain their crucial services for UK law enforcement.
