
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-48445430
What is misconduct in public office?
It's an ancient offence with roots back to the 13th Century
It can only be brought against someone who is exercising some kind of official function - such as a civil servant, a prison officer or someone else entrusted to carry out a public role
Someone is guilty of the offence if a prosecution can prove that the official wilfully neglected to perform their duty - or "misconducts" themselves - to such a degree that it amounts to an abuse of the public's trust in the office holder
The offence can lead to life imprisonment