London – AFP
London’s police chief, Cressida Dick, resigned Thursday, following a series of scandals rocked the British capital’s police force over issues of racism, sexism and the killing of a young woman by a police officer.
Dick, who was the first woman to become London’s police chief in 2017, said she had “no choice but to step down” following London Mayor Sadiq Khan lost confidence in her leadership.
Dick said she was “deeply saddened,” but “it’s clear that the mayor no longer has enough confidence in my leadership to carry on.” She explained that she will remain for a short period in her position until a successor is appointed, “to ensure the stability of the work of the London Police.”
Khan said Thursday that he was “not satisfied with the response of the Metropolitan Police Commissioner” following telling her that sweeping changes were needed “to eradicate racism, sexism and misogyny” in the force.
The 61-year-old commissioner has long faced calls for her resignation, following scandals including the assault and murder of a woman named Sarah Everard by then-police officer Wayne Cousins last year.
Dick noted this in her resignation statement, expressing regret over this crime as well as “other horrific cases recently that I know have damaged confidence in this wonderful police apparatus.” The future of London and London police.
Khan said earlier this month that he was “totally disgusted” following an independent watchdog reported that London police had exchanged “shocking” racist and sexist messages. It centers around alleged parties hosted by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in violation of coronavirus restrictions.
