Cumbria Police Rated Adequate In Crime Investigation By Watchdog
Cumbria Constabulary has been rated adequate in investigating, preventing and deterring crime following an inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.
The inspection found that the force remains in a stable position overall, with inspectors recognising its work in keeping people safe, reducing crime and providing services to victims. However, concerns were raised about whether investigations consistently maintain the same standard as cases progress.
Inspectors found that the force generally manages the early stages of investigations effectively. Most cases were allocated promptly, investigation plans were commonly in place and arrests were made within appropriate timeframes in the majority of cases reviewed.
The inspection found that the quality of supervision and evidence gathering can decline as investigations progress, with effective supervisory direction identified in only 66 of 82 cases reviewed.
Inspectors also found that investigation plans were not always sufficiently tailored to individual cases and that some reasonable lines of enquiry were not pursued. The report said all appropriate opportunities had been taken in only 67 of 85 cases examined.
Another concern highlighted by the inspection was the number of victim based cases ending because victims withdraw their support. Almost 30 per cent of such outcomes fail for this reason, a figure described as significantly higher than the national average.
The force was also assessed on its neighbourhood policing. Investment has increased the number of neighbourhood officer posts from 58 to 84, but inspectors found that some officers were regularly diverted from their normal duties to deal with demand elsewhere.
Among 65 neighbourhood policing staff who responded to the workforce survey, 22 said they were taken away from their main duties at least monthly. Fourteen of those respondents said this happened on a weekly basis.
Inspectors warned that these diversions can reduce officers' ability to carry out visible patrols, engage with local residents and undertake preventative policing work.
Despite the concerns, Cumbria Constabulary received stronger assessments in several other areas. The force was rated good for responding to the public, safeguarding children and adults at risk of harm, developing a diverse workforce and leadership and force management.
The inspection has resulted in a number of recommendations aimed at improving the consistency of investigations and ensuring police resources are managed effectively.
His Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary Lee Freeman said the force was in a stable position but acknowledged that further improvement was needed, particularly in investigations and demand management.
The findings provide Cumbria Constabulary with a clear set of areas to address as it continues efforts to improve the service provided to residents and visitors across the county.
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