By Trend News Line 2024-06-27 11:30:00.
Metropolitan Police and Gambling Commission Joint Investigation
In a recent development, the Metropolitan Police have announced that they will be investigating a small number of bets made on the timing of the General Election. This investigation is being conducted in collaboration with the Gambling Commission, with a focus on ensuring fairness and integrity in the betting process.
Two Categories of Allegations
The investigation will see allegations split into two categories. The first category involves bets that are suspected of being in breach of Section 42 of the Gambling Act 2005 (Cheating). These cases will be investigated by the Gambling Commission and are likely to make up the majority of the cases. The second category includes bets that are suspected of additional offences, such as Misconduct in Public Office. The Met’s Specialist Crime Command will assess these cases to determine the need for further investigation.
Identification of Officers
The Met has compared the names of individuals who have placed bets on the timing of the election against a list of their officers. So far, seven officers have been identified. One officer, a PC attached to the Royalty and Specialist Protection Command, was arrested on suspicion of Misconduct in Public Office. The officer has been bailed and is currently under restricted duties. Additionally, six other officers have been identified as having placed bets on the election timing.
Gambling Commission’s Perspective
Andrew Rhodes, Chief Executive of the Gambling Commission, emphasized the focus on investigating the use of confidential information to gain an unfair advantage in betting on the General Election date. The enforcement team has been working closely with the Metropolitan Police to ensure a just conclusion to the case. Rhodes highlighted the need to protect the integrity of the investigation and maintain fairness in the process.
Metropolitan Police’s Investigation
Detective Superintendent Katherine Goodwin, leading the Met investigation, stated that a joint approach with the Gambling Commission has been agreed upon. While the majority of the allegations will be investigated by the Gambling Commission, there are a few cases where a broader criminal investigation by the police is necessary. Updates on the investigation will be provided at key points as it progresses.
In conclusion, the joint investigation by the Metropolitan Police and the Gambling Commission highlights the commitment to upholding fairness and integrity in betting activities related to the General Election. The collaboration between the two entities aims to ensure that any breaches of regulations are thoroughly investigated and addressed..
“Met and Gambling Commission set out approach to election bets investigation”.