Like other sections of the law in this country, misconduct in public office is largely open to interpretation. It is defined by the Crown Prosecution Service as the 'serious wilful abuse or neglect of the power or responsibilities of the public office held'. That is because there is no strict definition of who might hold a public office. Misconduct in public office carries a maximum punishment of a life sentence, but recent examples have seen much lesser terms handed out. While he was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, investigators may use this opportunity to look at further allegations.

Source: Daily Mail February 20, 2026 02:47 UTC