Three Met Police Officers Fired After BBC Panorama Exposes Racist and Misogynistic Conduct

Three Metropolitan Police officers have been dismissed for gross misconduct following revelations in a BBC Panorama undercover investigation that exposed racist, misogynistic, and violent behavior within the force.

Officers Identified and Dismissed
The officers Sgt Joe McIlvenny, PC Philip Neilson, and PC Martin Borg, faced expedited misconduct hearings on Thursday after being secretly filmed making offensive remarks and discussing inappropriate behavior.
Despite denying gross misconduct, all three admitted to making the comments featured in the broadcast. The panel found all allegations proven, leading to their immediate dismissal.

They are the first of ten officers linked to the investigation to face disciplinary action under the Met’s accelerated misconduct process.

Panel Findings and Statements
Commander Jason Prins, who chaired the hearings, condemned their behavior as a “disgrace,” stating that the comments made were “abhorrent” and “damaging to public confidence.”
He emphasized that Sgt McIlvenny’s actions were particularly serious due to his leadership position.

Following the verdict, Cdr Simon Messinger said the Met had acted swiftly to uphold professional standards, confirming that the Charing Cross custody team had been replaced and leadership reforms were underway.

Details of Misconduct
Sgt McIlvenny, a 20-year Met veteran, was caught on camera dismissing a pregnant woman’s rape and assault allegations against her partner, saying: “That’s what she says.” He was also filmed making sexually inappropriate remarks.
During his hearing, McIlvenny claimed he was struggling with PTSD and had been “coerced” into conversations by the undercover reporter.

PC Philip Neilson was recorded making racist and violent comments, referring to immigrants as “scum” and suggesting that some should face “a bullet through the head.” He also glorified the excessive use of force on detainees.
Despite admitting his words, he denied being racist and claimed he had been “egged on” while intoxicated. The panel rejected his defense, calling his conduct an “utter disgrace.”

PC Martin Borg, also based at Charing Cross Police Station, was filmed laughing while describing an officer stomping on a suspect’s leg. He boasted about offering to cover up the incident.
Mr Borg denied wrongdoing but admitted to making the remarks, insisting he was manipulated by the undercover journalist. Five of eight allegations against him were proven as gross misconduct.

Ongoing Proceedings
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that seven more officers will face similar misconduct hearings in the coming days. The force reiterated its commitment to identifying “any other areas of concern” and restoring public trust.