Two Metropolitan Police Officers Dismissed After Invasive Strip Search of a 15-Year-Old Girl on Her Period
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By Gabrielle Rockson | June 27, 2025
In a shocking turn of events, two Metropolitan Police officers were fired from their positions due to their involvement in the strip search of a 15-year-old girl who was on her period. Trainee Detective Constable Kristina Linge and PC Rafal Szmydynski faced dismissal without notice for gross misconduct following a disciplinary hearing.
The incident took place on December 3, 2020, when the teenage girl, identified as child Q in the media, was subjected to a strip search by the police at her school in London. The search occurred after she was suspected of carrying cannabis, although no drugs were found during the search. It was carried out by two female officers in the school’s medical room, exposing the intimate parts of the teenager.
The victim later expressed her trauma, stating, “Someone walked into the school, where I was supposed to feel safe, took me away from the people who were supposed to protect me and stripped me naked, while on my period.” The horrific experience left a deep emotional impact on the young girl, leading to feelings of desperation and loss.
During the disciplinary hearing, the search was deemed as humiliating and degrading by the panel. The victim’s mother also voiced her anguish, questioning the treatment of her daughter and highlighting the lasting effects it had on her. The family demanded accountability and justice for the traumatic incident that changed their lives forever.
The Metropolitan Police issued a public apology through Commander Kevin Southworth, acknowledging the grave error in judgment and the trauma inflicted upon the victim. Southworth expressed regret over the lack of consideration for the girl’s well-being during the search and the subsequent fallout from the incident.
Furthermore, the case shed light on systemic issues within the police force, revealing shortcomings in training and oversight related to strip searches. The incident served as a catalyst for reforms within the Met and highlighted the urgent need for improved protocols and support mechanisms for officers dealing with delicate situations like these.
In conclusion, the dismissal of the two officers underscores the gravity of the situation and the commitment of the Metropolitan Police to uphold accountability and transparency in their actions. The harrowing ordeal faced by the teenage girl serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, especially vulnerable members of society. It is imperative that lessons are learned from this incident to prevent such violations from reoccurring in the future.