MP accuses police force of 'serious corruption'

A police force has referred itself to the watchdog, with an MP claiming in a statement it was for "alleged serious corruption".

Chris Coghlan, MP for Dorking and Horley, alleged Surrey Police tipped off suspects during a criminal misconduct in public office investigation into SEND officers at Surrey County Council.

The force says it takes all allegations about staff conduct "extremely seriously".

It confirmed it had made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) after receiving two complaints.

"We now await their review and decision," a force spokesperson said. "It would therefore be inappropriate to comment any further."

Surrey County Council also declined to comment due to the ongoing investigation.

An IOPC spokesperson said it was assessing the complaints and would decide on what action may be required in due course.

Coghlan said he "welcomed news that Surrey Police have had to mandatorily refer themselves to the IOPC for alleged serious corruption".

He detailed that the referral came after he raised concerns with the IOPC in September over the force's decision to close two separate investigations into allegations of misconduct in public office on the same day.

Both investigations relate to SEND officers at Surrey County Council.

SEND officers typically handle the assessment, administration and support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities for local authorities.

"These are exceptionally serious allegations," said Coghlan. "It is essential that they are examined by an independent body."

"The families involved have already endured an extremely difficult process," he continued.

"They need confidence that the police acted properly, that evidence was handled appropriately, and that the decision to close these investigations was made without improper influence."

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