London: A “key-jamming” scandal at Northamptonshire Police has raised serious questions over accountability within the UK’s public institutions, after an internal investigation revealed that multiple staff members falsely appeared active on official systems while being physically absent from work.
The probe by the force’s counter-corruption unit found that during 2025 alone, at least 1,516 hours of alleged fraudulent working time were logged, causing a loss of nearly ₹46 lakh in public funds. Police confirmed that nine force employees and two staff members from the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (OPFCC) have been identified in connection with the misconduct.
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How ‘key-jamming’ was carried out
“Key-jamming” refers to techniques used to keep computers appearing active — typically by placing objects on keyboards or repeatedly pressing a single key — preventing systems from going idle and creating the impression that an employee is working.
Investigators said all Northamptonshire cases involved staff placing objects on keyboards to simulate activity. The irregularities were detected during routine digital monitoring and audits.
So far, one employee has been dismissed, three resigned ahead of disciplinary hearings, one received a final written warning, and six investigations remain ongoing.
Police leadership calls it a breach of trust
Deputy Chief Constable Ash Tuckley described the conduct as a serious breach of organisational trust.
“The public rightly expects honesty from us. There is absolutely no tolerance for this behaviour within Northamptonshire Police,” he said.
Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone said the operation had exposed individuals who deliberately chose deception, stressing that misuse of public money would not be tolerated.
While the matter is not currently being treated as a criminal investigation, disciplinary proceedings are underway against those implicated.
Similar incidents reported elsewhere
The Northamptonshire case is not isolated. Comparable “key-jamming” incidents have surfaced in recent months at Durham Constabulary and Greater Manchester Police. In December 2025, Greater Manchester Police dismissed four employees following a large-scale anti-corruption probe.
In Durham, digital forensic analysis revealed that a detective’s laptop registered thousands of presses of a single key over extended periods, prompting his resignation.
Force already under scrutiny
Northamptonshire Constabulary has faced controversy before. Last year, its former chief constable Nick Adderley was removed after making false claims about his military service. He currently faces allegations of fraud and misconduct in public office.
Efforts to restore public confidence
With nearly 2,800 staff and an annual budget of approximately ₹1,950 crore, the force said it is strengthening transparency measures and upgrading digital monitoring systems to prevent similar abuse in the future.
Officials acknowledged that such incidents damage public trust, even as the majority of officers and staff continue to work under intense pressure with integrity.
Investigators say technical analysis is expected to help identify all those involved, while stricter protocols are being introduced to curb misuse of digital work systems.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
