13 November 2026

SDLP Policing Board representative Colin McGrath MLA has condemned the “depraved and utterly indefensible” behaviour of PSNI officers towards vulnerable members of the public, exposed in a damning Police Ombudsman investigation.

Colin McGrath MLA said: 

“This is a sickening betrayal of public trust and an appalling abuse of the power entrusted to police officers.

“People experiencing mental health crises, women in vulnerable circumstances and individuals desperately seeking help were subjected to humiliation, sexualised commentary and degrading treatment by the very officers sent to protect them.

“These were human beings at their most vulnerable, deserving of dignity, compassion and protection. Instead, their suffering became entertainment for those who should have been their safeguard. It is utterly indefensible and a disgrace to the uniform.

“In a week when we have rightly seen people in positions of influence jailed and brought to justice for offences involving abuse, this latest report will only heighten the anger, hurt and distress felt by so many. It is another deeply disturbing reminder of the devastating consequences when those entrusted with power exploit the vulnerability of others.

“Every person who calls the police must know they will be treated with dignity and respect. These officers betrayed that fundamental promise, inflicting damage on public confidence far beyond those directly affected.

“The dismissal of the officers concerned was absolutely necessary, but dismissal alone cannot be the end of this matter.

“As the SDLP representative on the Policing Board, I will be demanding clear answers from the Chief Constable about how this conduct was allowed to continue, what safeguards have been strengthened and what further action is necessary.

“I commend the officer whose courage in reporting wrongdoing helped expose this behaviour.

“There can be no excuses, no minimisation and no closing of ranks. Accountability must be absolute. Anyone who abuses their position to degrade vulnerable people has no place in policing.”