Up to 50 Scottish police officers suspended over alleged crimes against women

Chief Constable Jo Farrell warns of further sanctions and ongoing vetting issues

By LineZotpaper

Published9 October 2026

Read Time2 min

Sources2 outlets

Police Scotland has revealed that up to 50 serving officers are currently suspended over allegations of violence against women and girls, with Chief Constable Jo Farrell describing the issue as an epidemic. Farrell stated in an interview with BBC Scotland News that between 40 and 50 officers are investigated for such offences and she expects more to face sanctions. A review is under way into the case of former officer Alan Greer, a serial rapist who died by suicide, and 8,000 staff require re-vetting after regulatory changes earlier this year.

Police Scotland has disclosed that up to 50 of its serving officers are suspended over allegations of violence against women and girls, according to Chief Constable Jo Farrell.

In an interview with BBC Scotland News, Farrell said: "We've got in the order of between currently 40 and 50 people currently suspended, so not at work, who are being investigated for offences that relate to violence against women and girls. Those investigations are at various stages."

She expressed expectation that further sanctions would follow, citing a spate of recent convictions of former officers for sexual offences. Farrell described the scale of violence against women and girls in Scotland as an "epidemic", adding that police forces are not immune to the problem.

A review is under way into the handling of the case of Alan Greer, a former police officer who was exposed as a serial rapist after taking his own life. A recent BBC Disclosure investigation covered his case.

Additionally, approximately 8,000 members of Police Scotland staff have yet to be re-vetted following a change in regulations earlier this year. First Minister John Swinney has said he has full confidence in Police Scotland and the renewed vetting process.

Analysis

Why This Matters

This erodes public trust in policing, particularly regarding the handling of violence against women.
It reveals systemic issues within institutions responsible for public safety.
The incomplete vetting process may uncover further cases, affecting community confidence.

Background

Police Scotland has faced growing scrutiny after several former officers were convicted of sexual offences, including the case of Alan Greer, a serial rapist who died by suicide. The force is conducting a re-vetting programme after regulatory changes, and the chief constable's disclosure of 40 to 50 suspended officers highlights the scale of internal investigations.

Key Perspectives

Police Scotland: Chief Constable Jo Farrell is acknowledging the problem, with suspensions and ongoing reviews, but expects more cases to emerge. First Minister John Swinney: Has expressed full confidence in Police Scotland and the renewed vetting process. Critics/Skeptics: May question the effectiveness of vetting and argue the high number of suspensions points to deeper cultural issues.

What to Watch

The outcome of the review into Alan Greer's case.
Progress on re-vetting the remaining 8,000 staff.
Any additional sanctions or convictions resulting from current investigations.