PCC commissions independent review of professional standards following deaths of officers under investigation
Following the recent deaths of two Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary officers while under investigation, police and crime commissioner (PCC) Donna Jones has announced an independent review of the Professional Standards Department.
The PCC said she was aware of the “serious concerns” being raised about how officers and staff are treated while under investigation.
However, Ms Jones stressed the review was “not about attributing blame” but determining whether current systems were “appropriate, proportionate and compassionate”.
PC Claire Browne, who had served at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary since 2006, was found dead at a property in Netley on July 7. She was under investigation for gross misconduct over allegations she used her police email account for non-work purposes.
It comes after Hampshire officer PC Alex Hazlett-Beard died in February while under investigation by the force for misconduct.
Ms Jones said: “I know this is an incredibly difficult time for many across the force. I want to begin by acknowledging the deep concern and distress being felt by colleagues at every level.
“While it would not be appropriate for me to comment on individual circumstances, I am aware of the serious concerns being raised about how officers and staff are treated while under investigation, and how professional standards procedures are conducted.
“I have decided to commission an independent review of the Professional Standards Department, focusing particularly on the culture and timeliness of investigations, and officer and staff welfare.
“My ambition is for this review to be led by someone outside of policing, but with recognised experience in evaluating institutional practices and organisational culture.
“I have discussed this with Acting Chief Constable Sam de Reya and the incoming Chief Constable Alexis Boon, and both are supportive of this approach.”
She added: “We want to make it clear the review is not about attributing blame. It is about helping the force and me as commissioner to better understand whether the current systems are appropriate, proportionate, and compassionate.
“I will shortly appoint an independent investigator and determine the scope and terms of reference for the review. As part of this process, I want to ensure officers and staff have the opportunity to contribute their views.”