Lee Watling Email & Phone Number

Operation Northleigh - Grenfell Tower Fire Inquiry

I serve as the police lead to this serious and complex investigation, specifically tasked to support the judicial inquiry. As the first instance where an inquiry will be heard before any criminal trials, my role holds significant challenges. Leading a team of 180, I exercise exceptional diplomacy to manage often highly charged environments alongside bringing a determined approach to applying robust policies and protocols to meet all legal and ethical requirements. I have established thoughtful yet robust working relationships across key partnerships to ensure the rigorous management of sensitive intelligence. I managed the vulnerabilities around key evidence being disclosed inappropriately and jeopardising a fair trial process. To this end I work extensively with key members of the public inquiry team, ensuring the process and sharing of information supports the inquiry without damaging future criminal proceedings. As the largest investigation in MPS history, this inquiry has generated significant documentation. I have developed strategies to manage the enormous task of disclosure to support any subsequent trials. I have widely reviewed best practice to inform and develop a comprehensive disclosure strategy to future proof the investigation and any subsequent criminal proceedings.

Homicide Command

As a senior investigating officer, I led a team of 30, tasked with the investigation of homicide, manslaughter and corporate manslaughter; deaths in the workplace where health and safety offences were suspected or apparent. Prioritising lines of enquiry and devising investigative strategies, I oversaw the management of core requirements such as forensic submissions, interview plans, CCTV review and research to secure evidence. I supervised the use of resources and ensured budget requirements were met; responding to necessary austerity measures through cost evaluation against resource allocation. During this time, I solved 28 homicides; supported by my continued pursuit of current legislation and methodologies to develop numerous innovative investigative strategies.

Counter Terrorism Command

As a national HOLMES counter terrorism (CT) lead, I managed a team of around 140 in the provision of specialist aid to national security operations. I ensured robust review of priorities, management of resources and meet all compliance requirements. I oversaw highly sensitive intelligence and evidence, working with senior members of both police and the UK Security Service, I provided operational overview of major investigations of domestic and foreign terrorism. I supervised the counter terrorism HOLMES account, providing and prioritising intelligence and investigative support.I also led the investigation of unsolved historical CT offences. Utilising advances in forensics and the potential for changes of allegiance, I sought to examine evidence and secure new witness statements. I also served on an on call basis to support CT officers at times of active terrorist activity in the UK working in partnership with UK Security Services.

Trident Command

Selected to join a demanding and complex area of policing, I brought a considered and organised approach to counter evolving gang culture with particular emphasis on the investigation both fatal and non fatal discharges of firearms across London. Leading a team of 60 specialist officers, I drove the identification of emerging threats and implemented dynamic tasking of operational resources to challenge threats to life. I led reactive and proactive operations to gather and develop intelligence to secure the recovery of firearms, dismantle manufacturers and prevent firearm discharges.

Borough Policing

Leading a staff of 120, I worked within a busy and challenging London borough. I held oversight of investigative teams including a criminal investigation department and all proactive crime teams, intelligence and source handling. I was responsible for the effective management of crime across a wide geographical area and the leadership of multi-disciplined teams in a variety of locations. Having identified a need to improve the supervision of wanted dangerous offenders, I implemented successful protocols which more effectively managed and monitored outstanding offenders; securing a significant reduction in serious crime.

Operational Policing

I moved through a range of training and development; specialising in detective duties having shown an eye for detail, enquiry and observation. I investigated cases from acquisitive crime to serious violence, delivering the very highest standards of evidence. I went on to serve in a range of specialist teams encompassing intelligence gathering, surveillance and serious crime management. I delivered exceptional results in a range of roles, affording me the expertise to progress to senior management.