Critics who slammed cops over Sarah Everard vigil ‘eroded public confidence’ in the police
CRITICS slamming police over the Sarah Everard vigil eroded public confidence, it is claimed.
A report accuses them of jumping to conclusions with “limited evidence” after shocking footage showed cops dragging off women at Clapham Common, South London.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan called the tactics “unacceptable” while Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey wanted Met chief Dame Cressida Dick to resign.
But the watchdog document approves the policing of the event on March 13.
Critics, though unnamed, were accused of showing “a distinct lack of respect for public servants” facing a sensitive situation.
The report praises frontline officers for remaining “calm and professional” while receiving vile abuse from a hardline minority.
A woman told a female cop she hoped the officer would be raped and murdered, says the report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.
Most read in News
But it admits that the event was a PR “disaster” for the Met and criticises communication between senior officers.
Sarah, 33, was last seen alive on March 3 walking home.
Cop Wayne Couzens, 48, is accused of her kidnap and murder.
GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL exclusive@the-sun.co.uk