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Operation Linden

Factual summary of a published IOPC investigation, covering the incident, key findings and outcome.

All IOPC reports
Published
2022-06-01
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
South Yorkshire Police

What was investigated

Operation Linden is a wide-ranging and detailed series of investigations into how South Yorkshire Police responded to allegations of child sexual abuse in Rotherham between 1997 and 2013. The overarching report covers 91 investigations which included 265 separate allegations made by 51 complainants, 44 of whom were survivors of abuse and exploitation.

Key findings

  • The investigation covered past handling of child sexual abuse allegations.
  • 265 separate allegations were made by 51 complainants.
  • 44 complainants were survivors of abuse and exploitation.
  • The last investigation was completed in 2020.
  • There were significant past mistakes in handling cases.
  • Work continues to address ongoing issues in policing.
  • Key recommendations were made to improve support for survivors.
  • Publications related to the investigation are available.

Outcome

The report has highlighted key areas for improvement and set forth essential recommendations for police practices. Continued work is needed to fully address the issues identified.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk

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Reviewed by the BlueLineHub Editorial Team
Last reviewed: 13 July 2026 · Next review due: 13 January 2027

This is a factual summary of a report published by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Individuals are referred to exactly as the source report anonymises them. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the IOPC · Summarised 2026-07-13.