Scotland Yard chief who devised force’s drugs strategy admits to using cannabis
A SCOTLAND Yard chief who devised the force’s drugs strategy has admitted using cannabis — but insists it is only for medical reasons.
Commander Julian Bennett also heads the force’s misconduct panels which have fired cops for smoking weed.
He has been suspended from duty while he is investigated over allegations of drug misuse.
Commander Bennett reportedly refused to take a drug test ordered after a tip-off that he was using a controlled substance.
The veteran officer, who has 43 years of service, has now told professional standards investigators he uses cannabis for an unspecified health reason, The Sun can reveal.
Medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription since last November and the drug is often used by those who suffer from cancer, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy.
Low concentration cannabis oils and pills can be bought at pharmacies without prescription.
A source said: “The commander’s position is that he has not done anything wrong legally. He has said that he uses cannabis, but purely for medical reasons.”
Commander Bennett wrote the Met’s current drug strategy on raising “awareness of the dangers”.
Most read in UK News
He has presided over hearings leading to officers being dismissed for cannabis and was nicknamed “Sacker” due to the apparent high number fired.
The source added: “He has fired officers for using cannabis. He now accepts he uses the drug, albeit for medical reasons.”
The Met today said the matter is being dealt with as ''gross misconduct' if proven.
It means Commander Bennett could be subject to a full disciplinary hearing and potentially be dismissed if the allegations are proved.
The force said: ''The MPS made a voluntary referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct regarding the conduct of a senior officer.
"Following an allegation regarding the misuse of controlled drugs, the Directorate of Professional Standards recorded this as a misconduct matter and made the referral to the IOPC.
"The IOPC returned this to the MPS to run a local investigation, which is underway by the DPS and has been assessed at the level of gross misconduct if proven.
"The officer has been suspended from duty.''
GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL [email protected]