ANDREW DALY POLICE OFFICER FROM LONDON ACCUSED OF SENDING LEWD MESSAGES TO TEENAGE GIRL AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE
In December 2019, a disturbing incident involving a police officer assigned to protect the royal family in London came to light.The officer, identified as Royalty and Specialist Protection Police Constable Andrew Daly, has admitted to sending inappropriate and lewd messages to a teenage girl, raising serious concerns about misconduct and abuse of authority.
According to reports, the incident occurred in May 2016, when Daly was on duty near Buckingham Palace.
During this time, he managed to obtain the contact details of a 16-year-old girl who was visiting the palace with her mother and sister.
The girl, who is now over 18 and has chosen to remain unnamed, recounted that she was at the palace to attend a Queen’s tea party and watch a parade.
She explained that she was approached by an armed officer, who asked for her phone number.
Despite informing Daly that she was only 16, he dismissed her age, asserting that she was not underage and insisting she should give him her number.
The girl further described her discomfort, stating that she was reluctant to share her contact information but felt pressured by the situation.
She revealed that she is originally from Hungary and had been living in the UK for six years.
When questioned about her hesitation, she admitted that she did not think to question a police officer with a gun asking for her number at such a public event.
Following this encounter, Daly began sending her messages that crossed professional boundaries.
The girl testified that Daly asked her personal questions, including whether she was a virgin.
She described her feelings of disgust and violation, emphasizing that she felt betrayed by someone she was supposed to trust, especially given his role as a police officer tasked with her safety and the protection of the royal family.
During the misconduct hearing, Daly did not contest the allegations.
It was acknowledged that he breached professional standards by obtaining her phone number under false pretenses, giving the impression that he was interested in pursuing a relationship, and sending disrespectful messages.
The hearing panel heard that such conduct was highly inappropriate, especially considering the girl’s age.
Charles Apthorp, representing the Metropolitan Police, highlighted the seriousness of the case, noting that the girl’s age was an aggravating factor.
He emphasized that regardless of whether she was 16, 17, 18, or older, a police officer in Daly’s position should not have sought to initiate any form of sexual or inappropriate contact.
He pointed out that the standards of conduct expected from officers have evolved, and it is no longer acceptable for police personnel to engage in such behavior, especially outside iconic locations like Buckingham Palace.
The misconduct hearing continues as authorities deliberate on the appropriate disciplinary measures and further actions to address this serious breach of trust and professional standards.
