Alan Greer, a former Strathclyde Police officer later identified as a serial rapist and violent offender, was allowed to join the force in 2009 despite two prior police reports involving inappropriate calls to women, including a formal caution. The case raises serious questions about historic police recruitment safeguards and whether earlier action could have prevented further harm. Greer died by suicide in May, shortly after police raided his home.

Police Scotland has identified 15 victims, although the eventual total may be higher; Greer is alleged to have raped a vulnerable woman after meeting her while on duty and assaulted numerous sex workers during his 17-year career. A 2006 force handbook said applicants with cautions or convictions that could undermine integrity should not be recruited, while a former policing inspector said Greer should never have passed vetting. Police Scotland says its earlier statement that there were no missed opportunities concerned Greer’s service career rather than his recruitment, and his vetting will now be examined independently; a 2023 review had found major gaps, with about 8,800 staff still not re-vetted after the 2013 force merger.