Ex-West Midlands Chief Constable Investigated Over Maccabi Fan Ban

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating former West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford and four other individuals over the ban imposed on Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters attending a Europa League match. The investigation centres on the planning and preparation for the fixture at Villa Park on November 6 last year.

Concerns Over Intelligence Briefing

Evidence gathered suggests that Mr Guildford may have overseen an intelligence briefing document presented to the Safety Advisory Group (SAG) which reportedly contained inaccuracies and misleading information. The IOPC stated that Mr Guildford may have failed to ensure sufficient due diligence and scrutiny of this influential document. The briefing, presented to the SAG on October 24, is understood to have underpinned the decision to prohibit Maccabi fans and may have presented an imbalanced view of risks.

A senior serving officer, who played a leading role in compiling the briefing, is being investigated for allegedly failing to guarantee its accuracy and impartiality. This officer is also being examined for potentially mishandling sensitive intelligence before its sharing with SAG members.

A staff member involved in researching intelligence for the game is alleged to have sourced inaccurate information from artificial intelligence searches and not taken steps to ensure this was excluded from briefings.

Further Investigations into Senior Officers

Two other senior serving officers who held significant roles in the force's planning for the game have been notified that their conduct is under investigation. One is being investigated for alleged insufficient diligence in overseeing the operation, including balancing operational needs with engagement with local Jewish communities, and for displaying a lack of impartiality towards Maccabi fans. The second officer will be investigated regarding their oversight of the briefing document and an allegation of a lack of balance in their references to Maccabi supporters.

The IOPC has examined over 600 pieces of evidence, including operational documents, reports, intelligence research, meeting minutes, and extensive correspondence. Witness statements and expert advice have also been obtained.

IOPC Director of Engagement Derrick Campbell stated that the investigation aims to assess whether there is an indication that any individuals may have breached the standards of police professional behaviour. He noted that the investigation believes there is an indication some individuals may have behaved in a manner that could warrant disciplinary proceedings. Notices have been served, but Mr Campbell cautioned that this does not necessarily mean disciplinary proceedings will follow, and all decisions will be kept under review.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the IOPC will determine if any individuals have a case to answer and should face a misconduct meeting or hearing.