Ex-PCSO allegedly stabbed herself for compensation

The IOPC said Surrey Police had investigated an incident in Esher, in June 2022

A former PCSO has been charged with fraud after she allegedly stabbed herself to seek compensation, according to the police watchdog.

Olivia Morphew, 24, who was based in Elmbridge, Surrey, is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday accused of perverting the course of justice, fraud, and possession of a knife in a public place.

Surrey Police said the charges related to an allegation of assault reported to the force on 21 June 2022.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said it was alleged she had stabbed herself and submitted a compensation claim for her injuries.

The police watchdog said it began investigating following a referral from Surrey Police in July 2022, regarding an incident in Esher where PCSO Morphew reported being stabbed.

The PCSO resigned in September 2022 during the course of the IOPC investigations, the watchdog said.

A Surrey Police spokesperson said: "In July 2022, the matter was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, who carried out an independent investigation.

"The charges were subsequently authorised by the Crown Prosecution Service."

The spokesperson added that three teenage boys faced no further action after they were initially arrested in connection with the incident.