Minutes:
Following the mixed reviews in the media in relation to the Christmas Drink Drive Campaign “Name and Shame” the Commissioner was asked for comment. He responded that the process had been referred to the Information Commissioner and that there would be no action. He was of the view that it had been the right decision and explained that once a charge had been laid then it was public record and therefore no breach of confidentiality or improper disclosure had taken place, and as it was an operational issue it was the responsibility of the Chief Constable. A report on the campaign had been requested from the Chief Constable. He concluded that overall the campaign had the support of the public and in the future would feature in the Chief Constables strategy.
In relation to people with mental health issues coming into police custody, a member asked the Commissioner for a view on the level of information available to ensure the correct level of care, and was there a mechanism in place to identify vulnerable victims.
The Commissioner expressed concern at the numbers of people coming into police custody with mental health issues, creating a strain on officers who had neither the training or necessary skills. In order to identify the extent of the issue and associated resource implication he had commissioned a report. He informed members of a pilot scheme involving police and mental health professionals in the north of the County intended to keep people with mental issues out of the criminal justice system. In respect of vulnerable persons he explained that the multi-agency service hub, (MASH) supported by “Crime Stoppers” other local campaigns and initiatives, would provide the frame work to assist in their identification.
In respect of the apparent increase in child sexual exploitation in certain areas a member asked what the implications for policing were. The Commissioner responded that it was an operational matter and therefore ultimately the responsibility of the Chief Constable, however it would feature at the next Force Performance Meeting. It was the view of the members that child sexual exploitation should feature on the agenda of the next meeting of the Police and Crime Panel.
The Commissioner commented on internet crime and advised of a recent meeting with the National Crime Agency. The national consensus was that internet crime was the greatest threat across the country as a whole and it was his view that business crime presented similar levels of criminality and could not be overlooked. Members were advised that in recognition of the threat from internet crime a strategic agreement with three universities and a number of other police forces was being entered into.
In respect of the cuts in “Youth Services” across the County, the Commissioner was asked if it would have an effect on crime and in turn police performance. He responded that it would depend on the type of reform intended, and commented on the role of others including parents in delivering outcomes for young people.
RESOLVED:- That The Police and Crime Commissioner report to the next Panel meeting on Child Sexual Exploitation, Internet and Business Crime.