Met Police closed harassment case against journalist probing Cambridge professor Jason Arday

The Metropolitan Police spent four months investigating journalist Jack Grove for harassment after he questioned allegations surrounding Professor Jason Arday’s academic record. The case was closed in February 2026 without further action. Grove, a reporter for *Times Higher Education*, was not interviewed during the investigation.

The investigation began after Arday, a professor at the University of Cambridge, instructed law firm Carter-Ruck to respond to Grove’s inquiries. The firm suggested the journalist’s investigation into Arday’s credentials might be racially motivated. A formal harassment complaint was then made to the Met on 18 November 2025.

University inquiry into plagiarism allegations

Cambridge University confirmed it is conducting a formal inquiry into Arday’s academic qualifications and honorary appointments. The investigation follows allegations that sections of his PhD thesis were copied from a student’s paper published six years earlier. The university stated it would not comment further until the process concludes.

Arday, who became Cambridge’s youngest Black professor in 2023, has also faced scrutiny over claims he raised £5.5 million for charity through ultra-distance running. Some institutions named in his honorary appointments later stated they had no record of him holding such titles. Arday denied the allegations in an interview with *The Times*.

A university spokesperson said the inquiry would examine Arday’s academic record in line with its misconduct in research policy. Jesus College, where Arday is based, is also taking separate steps regarding the allegations. The university emphasised its commitment to a thorough process while providing support to Arday.

Journalist’s response to police involvement

Grove told *The Guardian* he was stunned to learn he had been investigated. Police informed him the case had been closed but reportedly advised him to stop contacting Arday, citing concerns about the professor’s mental health. Grove said the experience raised concerns about press freedom.

In a statement to *The Telegraph*, Grove said: "Journalists should be free to ask questions of anyone, even star professors." He had contacted Arday, Cambridge University, and Liverpool John Moores University, where Arday earned his PhD, to verify claims about his academic work and charity fundraising.

The Met confirmed receiving the harassment allegation on 18 November 2025 and closing the case in February 2026. A spokesperson for Cambridge University said the institution did not make any complaint against Grove and was unaware of any such complaint being made.

What happens next

Cambridge University’s inquiry into Arday’s academic record is ongoing. The university stated it would not comment further until the process concludes. Jesus College is also reviewing the allegations separately. No timeline has been provided for either investigation.

Grove has not indicated whether he will pursue further reporting on the matter. The Met has not commented on whether it will take any additional steps regarding the closed harassment case.