Five officers face probe over search of athlete

FIVE POLICE officers are being investigated for misconduct over a stop and search of Team GB athlete Bianca Williams in a car this summer.

The sprinter accused the Metropolitan Police of “racial profiling” after she and her partner Ricardo Dos Santos were stopped while travelling with their baby in west London in July.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct ( IOPC) said it had advised five Met officers they are subject to a misconduct investigation.

It said the probe would examine whether the couple were treated “less favourably” because of their race.

The watchdog said the officers will be investigated for potential breaches of police standards of professional behaviour relating to use of force, duties and responsibilities, and authority, respect and courtesy.

Footage of the incident in Maida Vale on July 4 was shared widely on Twitter at the time after being posted by former Olympic medallist Linford Christie.

Williams made a complaint about the incident on Twitter and the Met made a referral to the IOPC, the watchdog said.

IOPC regional director Sal Naseem said: “Having analysed a range of evidence including police body worn, dashcam video and witness statements, we now have a fuller picture of the officers’ interactions with the couple and their child.

“As a result, we have taken the decision that this meets the threshold for a misconduct investigation, the allegations will now be investigated thoroughly and independently.

“It is important to note that a misconduct investigation does not necessarily mean misconduct proceedings will follow. Decisions on any further action will only be made once our investigation is complete.”