Figures Reveal Record Number Of Complaints Against Police Last Year

New figures have shown there were a record number of complaints against police in England and Wales last year.

The findings from the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) show a total of 37,105 complaints were recorded between 2014/15.

This is a 6% increase compared to 2013/14 and a 62% increase since 2004/05.

The most common complaint recorded was 'other neglect or failure in duty', which accounted for 34% of the allegations.

In addition, 14% of complaints cited 'incivility, impoliteness and intolerance' from officers.

A Public Confidence Survey commissioned by the IPCC in 2014 revealed that public satisfaction following contact with the police was falling, with a greater willingness to complain.

It also revealed young people and those from black and minority ethnic groups were much less likely to file a complaint.

The IPCC research revealed marked inconsistencies in:

• The proportion of complaints that are initially upheld in each force, ranging from 7% to 27%; and the proportion of investigation appeals each force upholds, ranging from none to two-thirds.

• Whether forces investigate most complaints formally, or use more informal 'local resolution' processes: some forces investigate over 70% of complaints; while others use local resolution in over 70% of cases.

• The success rate for complaints investigation appeals considered by the IPCC (39%) remains twice as high as when those appeals are heard by forces themselves (19%).

• The length of time taken to resolve complaints – with averages ranging from 52 to 205 days.

Dame Anne Owers, Chair of the IPCC, said: "These figures show a complaints system that is both over-complex and inconsistent, and is clearly failing to satisfy a significant number of complainants. Chief Officers and Police and Crime Commissioners should look closely at the figures for their own forces to satisfy themselves that complainants are being treated fairly and well.

"However, the underlying problem is the system itself.  We welcome the fact that the government proposes to bring in legislation to simplify and streamline a system that at present satisfies neither those who need it nor those who have to operate it."

(LM/CD)