Met Police Officer from Recruitment Drive Appears in Court Over Stalking Allegations
A Metropolitan Police officer who participated in a high-profile recruitment campaign for the force has made a court appearance, facing charges of stalking and harassing a woman. PC Samson Akinnawo, 35, was featured in the Met's Change Needs You campaign in July 2024, where he expressed a lifelong ambition to serve as a police officer and appeared in advertisements promoting the force.
Details of the Court Hearing and Charges
On Friday, Akinnawo appeared at Thames Magistrates' Court, charged with stalking and harassing Melieka Daley between June and August of last year. The allegations include:
- Repeatedly calling and messaging Ms. Daley
- Visiting her home without permission
- Informing her that he had followed her from work
- Contacting her friend after his arrest
It is claimed that these actions caused Ms. Daley serious harm and distress, significantly impacting her daily activities. During the hearing, Akinnawo, dressed in a shirt, trousers, and navy blue tie, admitted to failing to disclose the passcode to a phone to police on November 26 last year.
Background and Current Status of the Officer
Akinnawo, a former prison officer and bus driver, resides on Walton Road in Newham, London. At the time of the alleged incidents, he was part of the Met's Specialist Operations unit. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that he is currently suspended from duty. The charges stem from his arrest in July 2025, as reported by Scotland Yard.
District Judge Lisa Towell released Akinnawo on conditional bail. He is scheduled to appear at Snaresbrook Crown Court on April 10, where he will enter pleas to the stalking and harassment offences. This case highlights ongoing scrutiny of police conduct and recruitment practices within the force.
