…By Gift BADEWO for TDPel Media.
A shocking development has emerged concerning the former director general of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), Michael Lockwood, who stands accused of committing sexual offences against a minor almost four decades ago.
The allegations, surfacing now, remind us that no one is beyond the reach of the law, and that even those occupying high-ranking roles can face justice for past actions.
This case may serve as a catalyst for individuals who have experienced abuse to come forward, no matter how much time has passed.
Uncovering the Alleged Offences
Michael Lockwood, a former police watchdog chief, is currently under scrutiny for alleged sexual crimes committed nearly 40 years ago against a 14-year-old girl.
At the age of 64, he now stands before the court, facing three rape charges and six counts of indecent assault.
These charges are related to incidents that allegedly took place in the Hull area between October 1985 and March 1986.
Accusations and Charges
The Westminster magistrates court heard accusations of Lockwood kissing and groping the girl in his car and in a storeroom at a leisure centre, where he was employed as a lifeguard and fitness instructor at the time.
It has been claimed that Lockwood, then in his mid-20s, engaged in sexual intercourse with the 14-year-old girl on three separate occasions.
Lockwood’s Position and Resignation
Prior to these revelations, Lockwood had served as director general of the IOPC, a position from which he resigned in December of the previous year after it was disclosed that he was under criminal investigation for child sex allegations.
Denial of Allegations and Court Proceedings
During the first hearing of the case at the Westminster magistrates court, Lockwood’s barrister, Jacqueline Carey KC, firmly denied all allegations on his behalf.
Not guilty pleas were made for all charges, and the case was transferred to the Old Bailey for trial.
Lockwood has been granted unconditional bail until the next hearing, scheduled for July 26.
Resignation and Investigation
Following his abrupt departure from the IOPC, which he disclosed privately to the Home Office, an internal investigation into the handling of the case and Lockwood’s ongoing role at the watchdog was initiated.
Sir David Calvert Smith, the former Director of Public Prosecutions, has been appointed to oversee the review.
Reflecting on the Situation
At the time of his resignation, Lockwood expressed his sadness at leaving the IOPC and highlighted his pride in the progress the organization had made during his tenure.
He also assured that new leadership arrangements would be put into place as swiftly as possible in conjunction with the Home Office.