Crossing the Line of Duty: How Corruption, Greed and Sleaze Brought Down the Flying Squad

The Metropolitan Police of the mid-twentieth century was described as 'the most routinely corrupt organization in London.' Fifty officers were prosecuted, and 478 took early retirement. Neil Root's book reveals how Sir Robert Mark cleaned it up.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 23 April 2019
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

The Metropolitan Police of the mid-twentieth century, particularly The Flying Squad and Obscene Publications Squad, has been widely regarded as one of the most corrupt organizations in London. Renowned figures like Ken Drury and Alfred 'Wicked Bill Moody were known for their close associations with underworld figures, engaging in bribery, paying off witnesses, and pursuing suspects regardless of their innocence or guilt. This scandal extended far beyond a few rogue officers, as fifty officers were eventually prosecuted, and 478 chose to take early retirement.

In his groundbreaking book, "The Real Story of How the Met Became Systemically Corrupt and How Sir Robert Mark Cleaned It Up," author Neil Root delves into the depths of this scandal using Metropolitan Police files obtained under Freedom of Information. These files have remained unseen since the 1970s, providing a unique perspective on the events that unfolded.

The book reveals how the Metropolitan Police became deeply entrenched in corruption, with a culture of bribery and favoritism permeating the organization. Officers were willing to compromise their integrity and engage in illegal activities to secure convictions and advance their careers. The influence of underworld figures was pervasive, with police officers accepting bribes, providing information to criminals, and even participating in criminal activities themselves.

The story of Sir Robert Mark, who became commissioner of the Metropolitan Police in 1972, is particularly compelling. Mark was determined to tackle the corruption within the force and implemented a series of reforms that aimed to restore integrity and accountability. He established the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) to investigate allegations of misconduct, introduced stricter codes of conduct, and emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the police force.

Root's book provides a detailed account of the investigations, trials, and scandals that plagued the Metropolitan Police during this period. It sheds light on the actions of individual officers, the political and institutional factors that contributed to the corruption, and the challenges faced by those who sought to bring about change. The book also highlights the remarkable achievements of those who fought against the corruption, including journalists, activists, and whistleblowers who exposed the truth and helped bring about the reforms that ultimately cleaned up the Metropolitan Police.

In conclusion, "The Real Story of How the Met Became Systemically Corrupt and How Sir Robert Mark Cleaned It Up" is a vital contribution to the understanding of police corruption and the efforts to combat it. By shedding light on the events of the mid-twentieth century, the book provides a valuable lesson for contemporary law enforcement agencies and society as a whole. It serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in maintaining public trust and ensuring that justice is served.

Weight: 342g
Dimension: 159 x 233 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780750989206