Armed police allegedly sleep on duty at Windsor Castle instead of guarding King

Up to 30 armed police officers tasked with safeguarding the King at Windsor Castle are currently under scrutiny for alleged misconduct.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police's Royalty and Specialist Protection unit are facing allegations of falling asleep during their shifts.

It is claimed that some officers marked attendance but failed to report to their designated posts.

The Met's Directorate of Professional Standards is conducting the inquiry, with a decision on whether to impose restricted duties on any officers anticipated by the end of next week.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct has been informed but decided the issue should be resolved within the Met.

The King and the Royal Household have been made aware of the ongoing inquiry.

Buckingham Palace also confirmed they have been notified.

A source told The Sun: "There are reports of an officer clocking in for duty and then not showing up at their post.

"It's embarrassing for the police and potentially jeopardises security."

"These are serious allegations which could lead to officers being suspended and placed under investigation for misconduct and dereliction of duty."

The Met, overseen by Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, stated: "The allegations include officers abandoning their posts and sleeping during shifts."

"Such alleged conduct does not meet the high standards demanded from officers, especially those in frontline protective roles."

This investigation comes after several security incidents at the castle over recent years.

On Christmas Day in 2021, a man wielding a crossbow infiltrated the grounds, declaring: "I’m here to assassinate the Queen."

Last June, a drug-influenced intruder in his 30s scaled a wall and was detained for suspected trespassing.

In October 2024, thieves made off with a pick-up truck and a quad bike from an estate farm, crashing through a security gate.

The Prince and Princess of Wales, along with their three children, were asleep at nearby Adelaide Cottage during this event.

Thames Valley Police subsequently ceased their investigation into the burglary.

While Windsor Castle falls under Thames Valley Police jurisdiction, security is the responsibility of the Royalty and Specialist Protection team.

Officers patrol the entrances and exits of the castle, as well as the vast 655-acre estate.

Uniformed foot patrols oversee the grounds, perimeter, and the interior of the castle.

Security is further bolstered by extensive fences, alarms, and sensor systems.

Weekly risk assessments occur, typically enhancing security when the Royal Family is on-site.

A source commented: "The expansive size of the castle and estate presents significant logistical challenges."

"But it is a castle and so designed to keep people out and those inside to be safe.

"The main job of the guards is to keep the perimeter secure at all times and it might be boring long hours but it's worrying if standards are slipping."