West Mids Police Federation 'supporting' chairman suspended over social media comment

Sgt Cooke responded to allegations of former West Midlands chief inspector of racism and homophobia in the force with a comment which sparked numerous complaints.

The Police Federation of England and Wales confirmed on Friday Sgt Cooke had "been suspended from his duties pending an investigation".

However, today (Monday) the West Midlands Police Federation issued a statement about the situation. 

The statement said: "West Midlands Police Federation is aware that Rich Cooke has been sent a letter from the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) advising he is suspended from his duties as chair.

"West Midlands Police Federation is supporting Rich through this process, and we hope this matter will be resolved quickly."

Walsall officer Jase Dooley is the deputy chairman of West Midlands Police Federation and is believed to be taking over Sgt Cooke's duties whilst the investigation is concluded. 

In 2019 Sgt Cooke was removed as chairman after a complaint about sharing information in a breach of confidence issue. However, Sgt Cooke was elected as chairman in December 2021. He said after that victory: "I’m delighted to have been elected. I have enjoyed the campaign, meeting officers in wide and varied roles around the Force. It’s given me a greater appreciation of the challenges we collectively face."

On December 5 Former West Midlands Police chief inspector Khizra Bano made several accusations concerning racial and homophobic behaviour of officers during her time in the force.

She is currently taking West Midlands Police to an employment tribunal for a string of claims including discrimination and also claims the Police Federation had not backed her.