Devon and Cornwall Police have been urged to make significant improvements following a comprehensive evaluation by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
The inspection revealed that the force was deemed 'inadequate' in three out of nine assessed areas, while two areas were marked as 'requiring improvement'. Two other areas received an 'adequate' rating, and the remaining two were rated as 'good'.
Inadequate Areas Identified by HMICFRS
The areas where Devon and Cornwall Police were found lacking include crime data recording, public response, and offender management.
As of October 2022, HMICFRS has placed the force under the enhanced monitoring stage, known as Engage, to address these deficiencies.
Concerns Over Risk Management
The force sometimes fails to record crimes against vulnerable victims, mainly violent or behavioral incidents
His Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary, Wendy Williams, expressed her concerns, stating, "I have concerns about Devon and Cornwall Police’s performance in keeping people safe and reducing crime – particularly about the accuracy of its crime recording, its response to the public, and its management of sexual and violent offenders."
She noted that the force sometimes fails to record crimes against vulnerable victims, especially violent or behavioral incidents and acts of anti-social behavior, which can prevent victims from receiving necessary protection and hinder investigations.
Wendy Williams further pointed out, "Our inspection also found that the force is not adequately assessing or managing the risks posed by registered sexual and violent offenders." These shortcomings have contributed to the decision to enhance scrutiny and support for the police force.
Additional Scrutiny and Support
Despite its inadequacies, the force was acknowledged for some positive efforts.
"We did find good examples of the force working well with other organizations to prioritize the prevention and deterrence of crime," said Wendy Williams.
She also commended the level of support provided to workforce members in performing their roles effectively.
Enhanced monitoring process implementation
The implementation of the enhanced monitoring process means additional oversight and assistance for Devon and Cornwall Police.
"Last year, in view of these findings, we moved Devon and Cornwall Police into our enhanced monitoring process, which provides additional scrutiny and support. I have also been in regular contact with the chief constable to monitor the force’s progress against these important and necessary changes," added Wendy Williams.
