A FORMER headteacher and deputy head of a Wembley school have been released on police bail in connection with alleged fraud.
Sir Alan Davies, the former head of Copland Community School, in Cecil Avenue, Wembley, and Dr Richard Evans, the former deputy head, were taken in for questioning by police on Tuesday (Mar 1) morning. Both were arrested on suspicion to defraud.
Mr Evans's wife was also arrested at the home she shares with her husband on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud and theft.
The Metropolitan Police Fraud Squad began an investigation into allegations associated with the school's finances in June last year. All three have been bailed to a date in late September.
The school, which had foundation status, first hit the headlines in April 2009 following allegations senior members of staff received 'unlawful' bonuses.
Sir Alan, who was knighted for services to education, resigned before he was due to face a disciplinary panel while Mr Evans was dismissed following a disciplinary hearing.
School bursar, Columbus Odukoro, and former head of human resources, Michelle Bishop, also resigned. Governors were suspended and an interim board was set up to run its finances.
The teacher who blew the whistle, Hank Roberts, said: "The police have been investigating this for a long time and I am amazed it has taken nearly two years for something to happen but I am very pleased there has been a development.
"Very important questions will arise from this. The Government needs to make sure it has better scrutiny of tax payers' money."
A pupil at the school, who wished not to be named, said: "Everyone is relieved that the police are investigating. Everyone is talking about it at the school. We found out on Tuesday morning and word spread through the classrooms. We just want an end to this and to move on."
Councillor Ann John OBE, leader of Brent Council, said: "This is a very interesting development. Allegations about the way public money was spent at the school is a cause for concern. I'm glad there has been intervention by the police."
Scotland Yard confirmed the arrests were in connection with an investigation into the alleged misappropriation of funds at the school.
