West Midlands Police chair suspended over "nonsense" racism claims

Richard Cooke made the comment on social media.

Author: Hannah RichardsonPublished 13th Dec 2024
Last updated 13th Dec 2024

West Midlands Police Federation Chair, Richard Cooke, has been suspended after he called allegations of racism in the force "nonsense" in a social media post.

It came after a former chief inspector claimed there was widespread homophobia and racism within the police force.

PFEW spokesperson: “We can confirm that the Chair of the West Midlands Federation Branch, Richard Cooke, has been suspended from his duties as Chair pending an investigation under the Police Federation’s rules which stipulate expected standards from a Fed representative.

"An independent investigating officer has been appointed, and we hope that the matter can be brought to a timely conclusion.”

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