A serving Metropolitan Police officer has been convicted of sexually abusing a 13-year-old boy over several years, dealing another blow to the force's reputation amid ongoing scrutiny over officer conduct.
The officer, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was found guilty at the Old Bailey following a trial that heard how he exploited his position of authority to manipulate and control his victim.
The court was told the abuse began when the boy was 13 years old and continued for several years, with attacks taking place in the victim's own home. Prosecutors said the officer used his police status to maintain control over the child throughout the period of abuse.
The Metropolitan Police launched an investigation after allegations emerged and arrested the officer, who was subsequently charged with multiple counts of sexual abuse.
The conviction marks another crisis for the Met, which has faced sustained criticism over its handling of misconduct allegations. The force has introduced various reforms aimed at improving how it responds to accusations against its own officers, but continues to face questions over its ability to root out predatory behaviour within its ranks.