Police Weigh Corporate Manslaughter Charges in Expanding Post Office Scandal Probe

Police investigating the Post Office Horizon scandal are now considering whether corporate manslaughter charges should be brought against those involved, marking one of the most serious developments yet in the long running case. The update was shared with victims in recent days by the National Police Chiefs Council and signals that the scope of the investigation continues to widen.

According to the NPCC, the inquiry is currently focused on eight suspects and officers have already carried out five interviews under caution. Investigators have identified fifty three people of interest and expect many of them to be formally designated as suspects as the probe moves forward.

For now, the main emphasis of the investigation remains on allegations of perjury and perverting the course of justice. However, police confirmed they are also seeking advice from the Crown Prosecution Service on whether charges of corporate manslaughter or gross negligent manslaughter could apply. This reflects the devastating impact the scandal has had on the lives of hundreds of sub postmasters across the UK.

The Horizon IT system was introduced in 1999 and produced accounting errors that falsely showed financial shortfalls in Post Office branches. These errors were blamed on sub postmasters, who were accused of theft or fraud and forced to repay money that they never owed. Many lost their livelihoods, reputations and financial security. More than nine hundred people were prosecuted and several were imprisoned. Some died before they could see their names cleared, adding to the anguish that families have carried for years. The scandal is now widely regarded as one of the greatest miscarriages of justice in British history.

The criminal investigation, known as Operation Olympos, began in 2020. One year ago, the police expanded their efforts significantly, forming a team of around one hundred officers across four regional hubs. This intensified activity followed the conclusion of the public inquiry’s evidence gathering phase. The inquiry, chaired by Sir Wyn Williams, published the first volume of its final report in July and is expected to release the second volume next year.

Police have also appealed to former sub postmasters who may have signed non disclosure agreements with the Post Office. It was recently confirmed that these NDAs will no longer be enforced, opening the door for more victims to share evidence that may help the investigation.

In their update, the NPCC emphasised that the core focus on perjury and perverting the course of justice remains unchanged. However, the decision to explore possible manslaughter charges reflects the severe harm caused by the scandal and the need to examine accountability at every level.

The senior officer leading the investigation recently told the BBC that any resulting criminal trials may not take place before 2028, highlighting the scale and complexity of the case. For victims who have waited decades for justice, the process remains slow, but the possibility of more serious charges offers a sign that deeper accountability may finally be within reach.