Police Scotland officer who took own life was violent rapist as victims urged to come forward

A Police Scotland officer who took his own life earlier this year is suspected to have been a violent rapist who carried out a spate of attacks.

The force said it has identified a number of alleged victims of Alan Greer, 47, amid one of the "largest and most complex enquiries ever undertaken" by its anti-corruption unit.

Work is ongoing to investigate the extent of the reported offending - which includes attempted murder - and to identify and support any other potential victims.

Assistant Chief Constable Lynn Ratcliff, professionalism and assurance, said: "My thoughts, firstly, are with the victims in this case who have spoken up and reported these allegations, as well as with Alan Greer's family, friends and colleagues who have been deeply affected by these reports and his death.

"The investigation into this matter is one of the largest and most complex enquiries ever undertaken by the anti-corruption unit and significant work is ongoing to fully ascertain the extent of offending and identify and support as many victims as possible.

"Clearly Alan Greer cannot stand trial for these allegations of serious violent sexual offending, including attempted murder, but this investigation is about identifying and supporting potential victims, giving them a voice, and establishing the full circumstances."

Greer joined Strathclyde Police in 2009 before it merged with Police Scotland in 2013.

Police Scotland confirmed that he worked as a Pc.

A major police probe was launched at the end of 2025 following a complaint relating to a non-recent serious sexual assault being carried out by an unidentified officer.

The anti-corruption unit got to work and subsequently arrested Greer on 24 April 2026.

A number of electronic devices were seized during the search of a property in Wishaw, North Lanarkshire, and enquiries into the contents of these are continuing.

Greer was released without charge pending further investigation and was suspended from duty.

He was found dead at the Wishaw property on 6 May 2026.

Read more from Sky News:
Taxi driver 'wrongly jailed' over murder bid suing police
Manhunt for drug dealer who escaped prison by climbing fence

The force said there were "no suspicious circumstances", and the circumstances of the death following police contact are now subject of a Crown Office-directed investigation by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC).

Police Scotland said further investigations have identified a number of alleged victims of serious sexual offending at the hands of Greer, who are now being supported by specialist officers and partner agencies.

ACC Ratcliff added: "I would encourage anyone with any information or who may be a victim in this case to please come forward and speak to us.

"You will be listened to and given the support you need."

Police Scotland enquiry team helplines:

• Email: OperationSubmarine@scotland.police.uk
• Phone: 07484 438 539 / 0300 426 6644

Police complaints and concerns relating to allegations of corruption or serious abuse can be reported via Crimestoppers.

(c) Sky News 2026: Police Scotland officer who took own life was violent rapist as victims urged to come forward