Recommendation 1
The IOPC recommends that the National Police Chiefs’ Council considers reviewing its welfare/safeguarding information leaflet, or considers altering the wording contained within it, to ensure that it is clear that it is given because an investigation is happening and this is not the same as a charge or a finding of guilt.
This follows an IOPC investigation review where the complainant’s husband appears to have taken his own life within 48 hours of his arrest on suspicion of non-recent child sexual offences. The complainant raised concerns in respect of the welfare/safeguarding information issued to her husband. She feels the wording implied that her husband was guilty and contributed to the decision he made. The leaflet which was provided to the deceased person could be perceived to be determinative in nature in respect of the offences for which a person may have been arrested for and also mentions numerous types of sexual offences which were not applicable in this case, such as online sexual behaviour which was not a factor in the deceased persons arrest. Whilst the review found that officers complied with NPCC guidance in issuing the documentation to the complainant’s husband and it is acknowledged that the overall aim of the leaflet is to provide appropriate support and safeguarding to persons arrested on suspicion of sexual offences, following an examination of the information contained within the leaflet, the IOPC recommends that the NPCC considers reviewing the documentation to ensure it is fit for purpose.
Addressed to: National Police Chiefs Council
Linked bodies:
National Police Chiefs Council