Don't British law enforcement agencies do extensive "background checks" on their civilian pilots? In the U.S., this prospective applicant would be intestigated extensively, similar to a MOD security clearance vetting.
Typically in California, approximately 40 man-hours would be spent on the investigation. This would include criminal records checks (through fingerprints), FAA records check, confirming education, training, credit check, talking in person to former employers, teachers, and references, PLUS additional references developed independently during the investigation.
Talking about "egg on their face" if the above accounts are accurate!
Very sad indeed.
:o :o :o