Europe UK (Commonwealth Union) – Under newly announced plans to enhance the process of dismissing corrupt officers from the police force, police chiefs will take on the role of leading independent public hearings. These hearings will be responsible for the removal of officers engaged in corruption. This development was revealed on August 31st, aiming to bolster the police dismissals process as indicated in a government statement.
In an effort to guarantee that the public receives the level of professionalism and service they rightfully deserve from law enforcement, expedite the removal of unethical officers, and restore trust in police operations, the government has introduced a comprehensive set of modifications to the regulations governing officer disciplinary actions, vetting procedures, and performance assessments.
The legal framework will be altered to ensure that all officers undergo suitable vetting during their tenure, and it will empower the termination of officers who do not pass a re-vetting examination while in their positions.
According to the new framework, a determination of serious misconduct will automatically lead to the dismissal of a police officer, unless there are extraordinary circumstances that apply. This streamlines the process of eliminating officers who are not suitable for service.
Furthermore, chief constables (or other senior officers) will assume greater decision-making responsibilities in determining whether officers should be dismissed. This amplifies their accountability for the performance of their respective forces. Additionally, they will preside over independent misconduct panels, replacing their previous role. While an independent attorney will remain a part of the panel, providing impartial advice and ensuring rigor, their position will shift to that of a supporting legally qualified individual (LQP). The final verdict will be based on the majority decision of the panel, just as it is currently. The hearings will continue to be open to the public to uphold transparency.
National Police Chiefs’ Council Chair, Chief Constable Gavin Stephens says “We welcome the change that will ensure any officer guilty of gross misconduct is automatically dismissed, and that any officer who fails vetting can be sacked.”
