King Charles‘ security does vital work in keeping him and Queen Camilla safe, at home and on public engagements. However, police officers protecting the royal family at Windsor Castle are under investigation over allegations they slept while on duty, according to a new report.
Several officers on protective duties from the Metropolitan Police’s Royalty and Specialist Protection team are being investigated after concerns were raised, The Sun reported.
The allegations prompting an investigation include officers leaving posts unattended and sleeping while on duty. The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS) has launched an investigation, and the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has been informed, the force has said.
Addressing the investigation, a Met Police spokesperson said: “The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards has launched an urgent investigation following concerns raised regarding the conduct of a number of officers on protective duties at Windsor Castle.
“The allegations include officers leaving posts unattended and sleeping while on duty. The alleged behaviour falls below the high standards expected of officers, particularly in frontline protective roles.”
© Getty ImagesThe statement continued: “The Independent Office for Police Conduct has been informed and concluded that this matter will be investigated locally by the Met. As part of their inquiries, DPS is assessing whether any of those under investigation should be placed on restricted duties. A decision is expected to be made on this before the end of next week.”
Buckingham Palace has yet to publicly address the investigation.
A revered bodyguard steps down
The news came after one of King Charles’ respected bodyguards stepped down earlier this month after years of service. The security chief, whom the Palace does not name in public, completed his final duty during the King and Queen’s state visit to the United States in April.
© AFP via Getty ImagesAccording to The Times, the historic US trip was his last tour with Charles and Camilla before entering retirement, but the royal couple is understood to have asked him to continue to work with the royal household in the future.
© Getty ImagesThe bodyguard went viral online with royal fans commenting on his distinguished beard, comparing him to the ‘Kingsman’. Members of the public also commented on the bodyguard’s large umbrella, which has been nicknamed a “gunbrella”.
He first gained public attention in 2022 and has since attended royal events, including Charles’ Coronation and Royal Ascot.
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