An undercover police officer, known by the fake name Dave Evans, appears to have lied to the spycops inquiry regarding a sexual relationship during his deployment. Evans had originally stated that he did not engage in any sexual activity while using his undercover identity.
This week, he was compelled to admit to the inquiry that he had a relationship with a woman for at least six months. Under questioning, he stated it was "possible" the relationship continued for two years, but he could not recall the exact duration.
Evans made the admission after campaigners, including social justice campaigner Helen Steel, brought evidence of the relationship to the inquiry's attention. He met the woman, known as Olivia, in 1998 while attending a college course and did not reveal his true identity as a police officer.
The inquiry heard that Evans and Olivia attended social events with animal rights campaigners and at least one demonstration together. Evans told the inquiry he did not originally disclose the relationship because he did not feel it was relevant, as she was not an activist or part of any target group.