CHESHIRE Police has been rated ‘good’ in respect of the effectiveness with which it keeps people safe and reduces crime.
The latest Her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary (HMIC) effectiveness report praises the Constabulary for high quality investigations, improvement in tackling serious and organised crime, commitment to preventing crime and anti-social behaviour and the high level of support for victims of domestic abuse.
The HMIC effectiveness report validates Cheshire Constabulary’s quality of investigations by stating that; ‘Overall the public can have confidence that Cheshire Constabulary investigates crimes to a high standard’.
HMIC conducted a review of 60 Cheshire police case files, randomly selected from crimes recorded between 1 January and 31 March 2016 and assessed them against several criteria.
They found that almost all cases were being investigated by an officer with the appropriate level of investigation skills, and that overall, Cheshire Constabulary’s gathering of evidence, initial investigation and allocation for subsequent investigation is good.
Deputy Chief Constable Janette McCormick said: “It is crucial for the public of Cheshire to have confidence that the Constabulary investigates crime effectively.
“I hope that HMIC’s findings instil confidence in residents that should they suffer the misfortune of becoming a victim we take their concerns seriously, investigate allegations robustly and bring those intent on causing misery in our communities to justice.”
“Investigations into all crimes are carried out by officers meticulously.
“It is imperative to the Constabulary that investigations are fundamentally victim focused, ensuring victims are at the centre of all Cheshire investigations from the outset, and special measures are applied to provide further support throughout the court process.
“HMIC’s review established that officers are compliant with the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime, and found good evidence that victim impact statements are regularly taken, meaning that victims can explain how a crime has affected them, strengthening their voice in the criminal justice system.
“We remain committed to providing a high level of police service to all victims of crime and I am delighted that the HMIC effectiveness report highlights and supports this commitment.”
