Devon and Cornwall Police rated inadequate for investigations and safeguarding
Devon and Cornwall Police has been rated inadequate in two of eight policing areas assessed by HMICFRS, with inspectors identifying serious concerns about the force’s ability to safeguard vulnerable people and bring offenders to justice.
The force’s latest PEEL inspection, published today, found inadequate performance in investigating crime and in safeguarding children and adults at risk of harm – ratings that carried causes of concern and three-month recommendations for urgent remediation in both areas.
His Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary Kathryn Stone said the force’s ability to carry out prompt and effective criminal investigations on behalf of victims remained a cause of concern, and described as disappointing the force’s continued failure to make sufficient progress on managing medium-risk domestic abuse cases, an area for improvement identified in the previous inspection cycle.
The force was rated as requiring improvement in four further areas: leadership and force management, developing a diverse and inclusive workforce, responding to the public, and managing fraud. It was rated adequate for preventing and deterring crime and for use of police powers.
HMICFRS acknowledged improvements since the last inspection, particularly in how the force answers emergency calls and in its financial management. The inspectorate said the force had benefited from the appointment of an experienced chief constable who had provided stability and clarity of direction.