Broken Yard: The Fall of the Metropolitan Police

The Metropolitan Police has been in a state of crisis for three decades, from the Stephen Lawrence case to the murder of Sarah Everard. Broken Yard charts the Met's fall from power to a troubled and discredited organization.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 496 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2023
Publisher: Biteback Publishing

The Metropolitan Police find themselves embroiled in a fresh crisis with remarkable frequency, leaving Scotland Yard in a state of disheartenment and diminished glory. Spanning a period of three decades, from the infamous Stephen Lawrence case to the shocking murder of Sarah Everard, Broken Yard vividly portrays the Met's descent from an unrivaled position of power to the troubled and discredited organization that we witness today. The outcome is a harrowing portrayal of a police force plagued by corruption, misogyny, and incompetence.

In this thoroughly revised edition, which includes an evaluation of Mark Rowley's first year as commissioner and the Met's inadequate vetting of individuals such as Wayne Couzens and David Carrick, Tom Harper employs intelligence files, witness statements, and firsthand accounts to elucidate the circumstances that led to London's renowned police force's current predicament and explore potential pathways for its recovery.

The book delves into the intricate details of how the Met's reputation was tarnished, shedding light on the systemic issues that contributed to its decline. It highlights the failure of leadership, the erosion of trust within the community, and the inadequate handling of critical incidents. Through a comprehensive analysis, Harper offers insights into the challenges faced by the police force and proposes solutions to address them.

Broken Yard is a compelling and essential read for anyone interested in understanding the state of law enforcement in London and the broader implications for society. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability, transparency, and reform within the police force. By examining the past and present, the book provides a roadmap for rebuilding trust and restoring the integrity of Scotland Yard.

Weight: 332g
Dimension: 164 x 363 x 46 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785908071