Met Police Officers Tied to Shocking “Struggle Snuggle” Messages
Three Met Police officers stand accused of sharing vile messages, including one about tracking down a girl — a phrase chillingly dubbed a “struggle snuggle”. The officers deny the charges.
Dark Chats Linked to Wayne Couzens
Wayne Couzens, already serving a life sentence for the horrific murder of Sarah Everard, appears linked by association. One officer allegedly sent Couzens messages about tracking down a girl.
Prosecutor Edward Brown QC revealed damning details against William Neville, 34, from Weybridge, Surrey. “He got pleasure from the detention of a 15-year-old girl with what he called a ‘struggle snuggle’,” said Brown.
“We contend that this is a rape fantasy,” he added bluntly.
Joel Borders, 45, and Jonathon Cobban, 35, are also in the dock. Cobban is said to have encouraged Neville’s twisted messages with a “haha” reaction.
Vile Jokes and Abuse of Power
According to the prosecution, the phrase “struggle snuggle” masked abuse: using lawful restraint as an excuse for non-consensual contact.
Other messages, shared two years before Couzens killed Ms Everard, included disturbing comments about domestic violence victims and even rape fantasies surrounding female colleagues.
Mr Brown said, “These messages target the most vulnerable who often feel unable to report abuse to police.”
Apologies or Excuses?
- Cobban claimed in police interviews that he regretted sending the messages, calling them “stupid.”
- Borders dismissed his remarks as “dark humour” which he admits might offend some.
All three previously served with the Civil Nuclear Constabulary before transferring to the Met in February 2019. Cobban and Neville, both 34, are currently suspended.
The trio face charges under Section 127 (1) of the Communications Act 2003 for “improper use of a public electronic communications network.” They admit sending the messages but deny they are “grossly offensive.”
Couzens’ messages were withheld from court due to other ongoing investigations. The trial is ongoing.
