Shock as Met Police Inspector charged with sex assault on man, woman

A serving Metropolitan Police inspector has been charged with two counts of sexual assault by touching, following allegations involving two adult victims.

Inspector Michael Richards, who is attached to the Met’s Learning and Development unit, was formally charged on Sunday, 25 May, and appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 23 June.

He was granted bail and is expected to appear at Southwark Crown Court on Monday, 21 July for further proceedings.

According to the Metropolitan Police, the alleged assaults occurred on the same day Richards was arrested, Wednesday, 17 September, while he was off duty.

The reported victims include one male and one female, both over the age of 18.

The Met said Inspector Richards has been suspended from active duty, and the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards has been informed and is overseeing the case.

The Metropolitan Police Service has not issued additional comments, citing the ongoing legal process.