Hertfordshire Constabulary prevents crime well but needs to improve crime recording

In particular, it needs to address gaps in the systems and processes for recording all reports made by victims of crime.

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has graded Hertfordshire Constabulary’s performance across nine areas. It found the service was ‘good’ in one area, ‘adequate’ in three areas, ‘requires improvement’ in four areas and ‘inadequate’ in one area.

HMICFRS said that the constabulary is continuing to pursue its prevention first strategy, with inspectors highlighting innovative examples of early intervention and activity to divert people away from crime. They said the constabulary communicates effectively with its communities, including those who interact less often with the police.

The inspectorate also found that the constabulary records reasonable grounds for using stop and search, describing this as a significant improvement from the last inspection.

However, alongside concerns about how the constabulary records crime, HMICFRS also found it needs to improve how it investigates crime, making sure investigations are effective and appropriately supervised.

Inspectors also said the constabulary’s control room still has challenges in responding to the public. It needs to make sure it improves its 999 call-handling and attends non-emergency calls within set timescales.

His Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary Roy Wilsher said: “I have concerns about the performance of Hertfordshire Constabulary; in particular, in how it is recording data and its crime investigations. In view of these findings, I have been in contact with the chief constable, as I don’t underestimate how much improvement is needed.

“We found the constabulary was good at preventing crime, and we saw innovative examples of early intervention and diversionary activity. However, they were not always investigating crime thoroughly. And I am concerned that not all victims get the support they need and the most appropriate outcomes.

“The constabulary must take steps to improve its emergency call handling and make sure it attends non-emergency calls within set times. But I am aware senior leaders have insight into performance data and are already addressing these issues.

“We will continue to closely monitor the constabulary’s performance in these areas.”

Hertfordshire’s police and crime commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards said: “Having been newly elected in May, as the inspection process was concluding, this inspection report provides me with a useful external assessment of how the constabulary is performing. It will assist my role in holding the chief constable to account on behalf of the public and considering the resources the constabulary will need in next year’s budget.

“There are clearly sections of the report which are a concern and where I want to see improvements made at pace. I am pleased that the constabulary has taken responsibility and is acting accordingly. This will include a return visit of the Inspectorate early next year to review progress on crime recording.

“The report also reflects areas of positive performance, particularly in preventing and deterring crime, diverting young people from crime and maintaining a strong neighbourhood policing model. I want to recognise the tireless work that police officers and staff are doing on the frontline each day to pursue criminals and protect the public.

“Since my election, I have worked to improve the public scrutiny of the constabulary’s performance, through my webcast Accountability and Performance Meetings (APM). The inspection report will be discussed at the APM on November 14.”