Met Police Volunteer Leader Fired After AI Flags Use of Work Phone for Explicit Images

The head of the Metropolitan Police's volunteer force has been dismissed after AI software flagged him using his work phone to photograph explicit images.

An accelerated misconduct hearing found that Special Chief Officer (SCO) James Deller used his police-issued mobile phone on two occasions in July and August 2025 to photograph sexual images that had been sent to his personal device. The images were originally shared via WhatsApp's 'View Once' function. Deller then forwarded these photographs from his work phone to his personal phone before deleting them.

Deller's conduct was identified through Project Galatasaray, an operation that employed Palantir software to analyze existing Metropolitan Police data and detect potential misconduct. This case is part of Operation Artificial, a broader anti-corruption initiative 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 wider effort to enhance internal standards.

Commander Pete Stevens stated that the vast majority of Met officers and staff serve with dedication and integrity, and robust action is expected against those who abuse their positions and erode public trust. Stevens specifically noted the importance of high standards for Special Constabulary leaders, emphasizing that Deller failed to meet this bar and abused the trust placed in him.

Deller will be added to the College of Policing's barred list, preventing him from serving in policing again. The Met has indicated that it is reviewing the future leadership and structure of the Special Constabulary as part of ongoing efforts to improve professional standards.