Putting Met chiefs on the beat 'is a waste' - News - Evening Standard
       

Putting Met chiefs on the beat 'is a waste'

A scheme to send experienced Met officers back on the beat is under review after criticism that it is a waste of manpower.

Up to 500 officers have taken part in Operation Sphere, which involves them doing regular shifts on uniformed patrol, since 2006.

The Met says it gives them ongoing grassroots experience which is essential in case of emergencies. But Perry Oliver of the Met's Inspectors Branch Board, said: "What is happening is inspectors are effectively told to do the job of a constable, which we think is poor use of manpower and resources."

Confirming the review, a Met spokeswoman said: "Operation Sphere is designed to help boroughs while enabling operationally fit HQ-based officers to maintain their operational policing skills."

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