Boris Johnson referred to police watchdog over relationship with US model and businesswoman
BORIS Johnson has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to assess whether there should be a criminal investigation over his relationship with an American former model.
Jennifer Accuri, 34, is alleged to have had an affair with the PM and a Sunday Times investigation accused his office of helping her get £126,000 grants and sponsorship for her companies.
The police watchdog will asses whether he should be investigated for the criminal offence of misconduct in public office while he was mayor of London.
Boris Johnson has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to
The Greater London Authority (GLA) said in a statement that the authority’s monitoring officer had recorded a “conduct matter” against the Prime Minister.
It added the allegations related to the US businesswoman and claims she received favourable treatment because of her friendship with him.
The statement said: “A ‘conduct matter’ exists where there is information that indicates that a criminal offence may have been committed.
“It does not mean that this is proved in any way. The IOPC will now consider if it is necessary for the matter to be investigated.”
The issue has been referred to the IOPC, which deals with complaints against police forces in England and Wales, because Mr Johnson at the time held the post equivalent to a police and crime commissioner.
Mr Johnson, who denies any wrongdoing, has previously said that he will co-operate with any investigation into his links with Ms Arcuri by the London Assembly.
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The PM has insisted “everything was done entirely in the proper way” over his professional dealings with Miss Arcuri.
But he would not deny having an extramarital affair with her while he was London Mayor.
Mr Johnson formed a close friendship with Miss Arcuri after the pair met in 2012, and took her on three trade trips with him.
