SNP ministers pressed to explain missed chances to stop jailed officer’s offending

A Scottish opposition politician argues that ministers must explain how Campbell Petrie was able to continue offending after an earlier case against him was dropped. Petrie, a serving police officer who raped and abused women, has been jailed for 12 years; the article says his victims deserve answers about missed opportunities to stop him and the handling of information about him.

The article cites 45 serving officers suspended over allegations involving violence against women and girls, while stressing that suspension does not establish guilt. It says around 6,000 officers and 2,000 civilian staff were still awaiting re-vetting, and notes the Chief Constable warned that re-vetting needed sustained investment. It also criticises Scottish Government regulations for not requiring independent, legally qualified chairs at gross-misconduct hearings for every rank, and calls for ministers to explain their decisions and provide resources.