Question
Given that it’s now become clear that over 70 PSNI officers are currently being investigated for sexual or domestic misconduct, can the Chief Constable clarify (i) the longest duration that any of these cases has remained outstanding and; (ii) any measures being taken by PSNI to expedite these investigations so that conclusions are reached in a timely way and in the interests of maintaining public confidence in policing?
Answer
1. Of the 74 ongoing sexual and domestic cases, five were commenced prior to 2020. The longest outstanding is from October 2017. A misconduct hearing on this matter is scheduled for March.
2. We understand the importance of timely investigations and misconduct processes in maintaining public confidence and minimising the impact on Police Officers, particularly in cases where allegations concern sexual or domestic misconduct.
3. It is worth pointing out that such investigations may also be carried out by the Police Ombudsman’s Office. In many cases a criminal investigation will precede the misconduct matters and Professional Standards will be relying on a decision from the Public Prosecution Service to advance the case.
4. In recognition of the legitimate expectation of timely and effective investigations, an uplift of eight Detective Constables, two researchers and two administrative assistance for Professional Standards has been agreed.
5. There has been an increased use of Special Case hearings over the past 12 months as a means to deal more expeditiously with cases of gross
misconduct. In 2020 a total of 12 Special Case hearings were conducted, in comparison with three in 2021 and one in 2020. Of the 12 Special Case hearings held in 2022, 10 of these resulted in officers being dismissed without notice.
6. Professional Standards Department is currently undergoing a Continuous Improvement programme which is currently under consideration, against the reality of the Organisation’s budgetary position. The programme will identify process and technology improvements, which will make the Department’s running more efficient and effective.
7. An operational group has been established by Professional Standards with colleagues in the Ombudsman’s Office and the Public Prosecution Service. A number of specific asks have been made of the Prosecution Service to speed and specialise decision-making. Our work with the Ombudsman’s Office has identified some potential efficiencies, which again may lead to greater ability to focus on priority.
John Blair - Alliance