An urgent investigation has been launched into allegations that police officers tasked with protecting members of the Royal Family at Windsor Castle have been sleeping while on duty. The Metropolitan Police's Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS) is looking into claims that a number of officers from the Royalty and Specialist Protection team left their posts unattended and slept during their shifts.
Allegations of Misconduct
According to reports, concerns were raised about the conduct of several officers assigned to protect the Royal Family at the historic Berkshire castle. The allegations include officers abandoning their designated positions and sleeping while on duty, behavior that falls significantly below the expected standards for frontline protective roles.
The Met Police confirmed that the DPS has launched an urgent investigation and that the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has been informed. A spokesperson stated: "The Met's Directorate of Professional Standards has launched an urgent investigation following concerns raised regarding the conduct of a number of officers on protective duties at Windsor Castle. The allegations include officers leaving posts unattended and sleeping while on duty. The alleged behaviour falls below the high standards expected of officers, particularly in frontline protective roles."
Next Steps in the Investigation
The DPS is currently assessing whether any of the officers under investigation should be placed on restricted duties. A decision on this matter is expected before the end of next week. The Met Police added: "The Independent Office for Police Conduct has been informed and concluded that this matter will be investigated locally by the Met. As part of their inquiries, DPS is assessing whether any of those under investigation should be placed on restricted duties. A decision is expected to be made on this before the end of next week."
Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the ongoing investigation, while the IOPC was unavailable for comment. The investigation comes amid heightened scrutiny of security arrangements for the Royal Family, with the Met Police emphasizing that the alleged conduct is unacceptable for officers in such critical roles.
