DAVID MCQUADE'S SHOCKING CASE IN GLENROTHES: POLICE OFFICER ON SEX OFFENDERS REGISTER STILL PAID BY FORCE

In a disturbing development from Glenrothes, police officer David McQuade, who was involved in a serious sexual assault incident at Fife Division headquarters, continues to receive his salary despite recent criminal convictions and being placed on the sex offenders register. This case has sparked outrage among victims' advocates and the general public alike.

McQuade, aged 52, was found guilty of attempting to coerce a junior female colleague into having sex with him. The incident occurred in October 2022 within the police premises in Glenrothes, where he allegedly tried to pressure her into a sexual act. According to reports, he repeatedly kissed her on the face and neck, touched her body without consent, and attempted to undo her trousers, actions that constitute a serious breach of professional conduct and personal boundaries.

Following the incident, McQuade was suspended from duty but has continued to draw his annual salary of £48,000. Since the assault, he has earned over £100,000 in taxpayer-funded wages, raising questions about the policies governing officers accused of serious misconduct. Despite the criminal proceedings culminating in a court ruling last week, McQuade remains on the police payroll and is still suspended from active duty.

At Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court, McQuade was ordered to pay his female victim £5,000 in compensation and was sentenced to perform 200 hours of community service. The court also mandated that he be on the sex offenders register for five years, marking a significant legal consequence for his actions. However, critics argue that the continued payment of his salary is unjust and a drain on public resources, especially given the severity of his misconduct.

Scottish Conservative victims spokeswoman Sharon Dowey expressed her dismay, stating, “The public will be appalled that this officer has continued to pick up his pay cheque, especially now he has been convicted. At a time when SNP cuts are continuing to hit police budgets, these payments will have been a drain on resources.” She emphasized the need for reforms, criticizing the police complaints system for failing victims and calling for legislation that prioritizes victims' rights and ensures swift action against officers accused of serious crimes.

Similarly, Scottish Labour’s Pauline McNeill highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards within the police force. She said, “It is vital that police officers uphold the highest standards and process to remove those who commit serious offences such as sexual assault must be completed as a matter of urgency. While there are processes to follow, action must be taken as quickly as possible in order to protect the public purse and maintain public trust.”

Chief Superintendent Helen Harrison, head of professional standards, praised the bravery of McQuade’s victim for coming forward and emphasized the importance of justice. She stated, “Their pursuit of justice reflects their integrity to do the right thing.” Harrison confirmed that the case would be referred for misconduct proceedings, asserting that McQuade’s conduct was well below the standards expected of police officers and that appropriate disciplinary measures would be considered to address his actions.