The head of the Metropolitan Police's volunteer force has been dismissed after artificial intelligence software flagged him using his work phone to capture intimate images of a woman. An accelerated misconduct hearing found that, on two occasions in July and August 2025, Special Chief Officer James Deller used his police-issued mobile phone to photograph sexual images that had been sent to his personal device.
Deller then sent both photographs from his work phone to his personal phone before deleting them. His conduct was identified during Project Galatasaray, an operation that used Palantir software to analyze data held by the Metropolitan Police and identify potential misconduct. This case is part of Operation Artificial, a wider anti-corruption program launched after the technology generated over 100 misconduct referrals involving officers and staff.
Before his dismissal, Deller oversaw approximately 1,200 volunteer officers within the Met's Special Constabulary. The Metropolitan Police invested £487,000 in the AI system as part of a broader internal standards crackdown.
Commander Pete Stevens stated that the majority of Met officers and staff serve with dedication and integrity, and they expect strong action against those who abuse their position. He added that Deller failed to meet the high standards expected, particularly of those serving in the Special Constabulary, and that his actions were an abuse of trust.
Deller will be added to the College of Policing's barred list, preventing him from serving in policing again. The Met is currently reviewing the future leadership and structure of the Special Constabulary as part of ongoing efforts to improve professional standards.