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Menezes marksmen: Let us return to duty
Justin Davenport, Crime Correspondent15.12.08
THE two police marksmen who shot dead Jean Charles de Menezes want to return to duty, it was revealed today.
Both officers agreed to stand down from armed operations during the inquest into the shooting of the Brazilian who was mistaken for a terrorism suspect. The jury returned an open verdict.
The pair, codenamed C12 and C2, agreed they should not be available for active duty while they were under scrutiny in the witness box.
However, police sources have told the Standard they want to get back to the job "they are paid and trained to do".
The two men are to hold talks with senior officers about going back out on specialist firearms operations in coming weeks. One option would be for them to take up a backroom role, training other marksmen.
Senior officers in Scotland Yard's CO19 firearms unit will make the final decision. One source said: "It is early days yet. They will not return until there is a face to face meeting, and it is decided they are up to the job - it will be a management decision."
Police leaders are meanwhile expected to reject calls for misconduct proceedings against the commanders of the operation. The Metropolitan Black Police Association has made a call for Mayor Boris Johnson to launch disciplinary action against Cressida Dick and John McDowall. The two senior officers were in charge of the operation that led to the shooting. MBPA chairman Alfred John said: "We are determined to highlight the lack of accountability."
Senior Met officers have accused the MBPA of using the tragedy as part of a campaign to discredit the force's leadership.
The Metropolitan Police Authority and the Independent Police Complaints Commission sources said it was unlikely either would launch a new inquiry.
Reader views (6)
These 2 Officers should not return to armed service. Any actions that they take in the future would be compromised by there actions and testimony in this case. The jury did not belive them.
- Donnie, Canada
With command comes Responsibility. As a Commander you can delegate Authority But not Responsibility. Those in Command that Day have yet to fully accept responsibility for there mistakes which caused C12 and C2 to Kill!
- Donnie, Canada
These officers were acting under extreme circumstances as our nation was under attack from terrorists, how soon we forget?
- Brandon Thomas, London UK
It must be wonderful (being perfect). As a mere mortal subject to mistakes, both large and small, I often fantasize about achieving perfection in everything I do and even looking down on those other peons who do not.
What do I care if they are dealing with reality. Its my fantasy after all. Yep - in my fantasy I can have 20-20 hindsight before any situation arises. Ah, you poor benighted fools who cannot do as I would in your situation.
It's easy. All you have to do is suspend logic and thought, close your eyes - and wish!
- Rogan, Irving
The jury at the inquest said that they did not believe the statements made by the officers involved. I have hence been waiting to see if purjery charges will be bought. The idea that they can be let back on duty with guns, is shocking.
- Stephen, London
How many more police 'mistakes' are we going to tolerate?
In business managers are held responsible for their teams. Those in charge in the Police should always be responsible for the actions of those they lead.
The MBPA is right, despite the opinions of 'Senior Met Officers' covering their backs.
More Police, but less guns!
- Paul, chertsey, UK
