Devon and Cornwall Police Criticised in HMIC Report Despite Neighbourhood Policing Praise

Devon and Cornwall Police have welcomed the latest report from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS), which highlights the Force’s commendable approach to neighbourhood policing. However, the Force has expressed significant concerns over aspects of the report, which rely on outdated data and do not reflect recent improvements.

Neighbourhood Policing Praised

The HMICFRS PEEL (Police Effectiveness, Efficiency and Legitimacy) 2023-25 report commends Devon and Cornwall Police for their effective engagement with communities. The Force’s approach to understanding community needs, building public trust, and encouraging information sharing to prevent and detect crime has been highlighted as a strong point. The report also praises the Force’s use of problem-solving and early intervention strategies to reduce crime.

Acting Chief Constable Jim Colwell expressed his satisfaction with the recognition, stating, “I am pleased that the Inspectorate has acknowledged the good work that goes on in our neighbourhood teams every day, which is a reflection on the hard work of our officers, staff, and volunteers.”

Concerns Over Historical Data

Despite the positive feedback on neighbourhood policing, the Force has raised concerns about the report’s reliance on historical data. Some of the data is over a year old, not accurately reflecting the improvements made by the Force. This has led to significant discrepancies in the report’s findings.

Investigating Crime and Response Times

The report rates the Force as inadequate in investigating crime, noting the need for more effective investigations that yield satisfactory results for victims. However, Jim Colwell highlighted the progress made since the last inspection, including a review of the operating model and efforts to address the national shortage of detectives.

Colwell acknowledged, “We still have work to do to ensure our investigations meet the high standards the public expects, particularly with serious and complex crimes. We have made progress, but there is still much more to do.”

The Force was also criticised for its response times to emergency and non-emergency calls. The report stated that improvements are needed in this area. At the time of the inspection, the Force answered 79.3% of 999 calls within ten seconds. Recent data shows a significant improvement, with 93.4% of calls answered within ten seconds from January to June 2024. Similarly, the 101 call abandonment rate has improved from 48% to 18.9% in the last six months.

Discharge from Previous Concerns

The Force was formally discharged by HMICFRS in January from concerns regarding the management of violent and sexual offenders. The Inspectorate had noted ‘clear and sustainable improvements’ in this area, including investment in public protection teams and a significant reduction in overdue visits.

Moving Forward

Jim Colwell voiced his concerns that some aspects of the report might mislead the public about the Force’s effectiveness. He emphasised that reports based on historic data are limited in helping the organisation focus on continued improvement.

Colwell stated, “We have been working with the Inspectorate for some time through the Police Performance Oversight Group (PPOG), and I regularly report our progress. This report does not reflect the positive feedback I receive from the Inspectorate at these meetings.”

Despite the criticisms, Colwell remains optimistic about the future, “I am extremely proud that Devon and Cornwall remain the second safest counties in the country. We will continue to work with the Inspectorate, our partners, and our Police and Crime Commissioner to deliver sustained change in the right areas.”

Devon and Cornwall Police continue to strive for excellence, committed to delivering a service that ensures community safety and trust.