Metropolitan Police commander Ali Dizaei is to serve a second term in prison after Southwark Crown Court found him guilty of misconduct in public office and perverting the course of justice.

The controversial commander was previously sentenced to 15 months for attacking and framing web designer Waad al-Baghdadi in 2008 before his conviction was overturned late last year (full story here).

This time already served is likely to count towards his new three year term but having been reinstated (and subsequently suspended) by the Met following the Court of Appeal's decision, this second charge is expected to end Dizaei's career as an officer.

Senior Crown Advocate Gaon Hart, of the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division said: "The jury agreed today that Ali Dizaei abused his position as a senior police officer when he threatened and arrested an innocent man with whom he had a personal dispute. 

"Dizaei had no proper reason for making this arrest and there was no real evidence that this young man had committed any crime on that day. Dizaei’s corruption, which would be deplorable in any police officer, was all the more so given his position as a highly ranked Commander.

"Almost two years ago today, the Crown Prosecution Service made a similar announcement and the decision today vindicates the decision to take the matter before a jury."

Dizaei's solicitor has said his client is "extremely disappointed at the decision" and intends to appeal.

Posted 14/02/2012 by richard.hook@pavpub.com