An inquiry into alleged misconduct by royal police officers is expanding as more officers come under scrutiny. The investigation has already resulted in more than 20 royal protection officers receiving misconduct notices, with a focus now shifting to officers stationed at Buckingham Palace. The probe, initiated due to claims of officers failing in their duty to protect King Charles III, revealed instances of officers allegedly sleeping on duty and neglecting their posts after reporting for duty.

The Royalist and Specialist Protection team, responsible for security at the castle despite being under the jurisdiction of Thames Valley Police, has been at the center of the investigation. The Metropolitan Police disclosed that 23 officers received misconduct notices related to Windsor Castle inquiries, with 21 placed on restricted duties. The remaining two officers are not formally restricted but will not be assigned to any royal residence pending the investigation.

The Directorate of Professional Standards at the Met Police is conducting the investigation, which has now expanded to include officers working at Buckingham Palace and other royal locations. Concerns have been raised about lax practices at Windsor Castle being prevalent at other royal palaces as well. The King and the Royal Household are reportedly aware of the ongoing investigation.

The duties of the specialist unit include foot patrols and guarding castle entrances, along with employing security measures like alarms, sensors, and fencing. Following the initial reports of misconduct among RaSP officers at Windsor Castle, Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley emphasized the importance of upholding high standards in protective roles. The investigation is ongoing, encompassing the conduct of officers at various royal residences as part of the scrutiny by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.