- Report gives Scotland Yard miserable testimony
The London Metropolitan Police, according to a report, is struggling to meet its responsibilities in many areas. This is highlighted in a report by HMICFRS (Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services).
Investigation and Monitoring of Criminals Inadequate
The authority only praised the Metropolitan Police's performance in one of eight assessed areas: the use of powers such as stop and search, and fair and respectful interaction with the public.
However, the authority identified areas for improvement, such as crime prevention, protecting vulnerable people, and police leadership and administration. It even graded the Metropolitan Police's investigation of crimes and monitoring of known criminals as inadequate.
Sex Offenders Poorly Monitored
Issues were raised regarding the monitoring of dangerous sex offenders at large, including insufficient training for officers and frequent pre-announced checks.
The authority also criticized the police's approach to combating online child pornography, with investigations closed in 60% of cases. The police cited the overall high number of cases as the reason.
The authority recommended that the police urgently review their approach in both areas.
Investigators Lack Training
The inexperience of many officers also negatively impacts crime investigations. Even in complex cases, officers with only basic investigative training are deployed.
"I have serious concerns about the current approach of the police in investigating crimes and dealing with criminals and suspects," said responsible inspector Lee Freeman in a statement.
He acknowledged the "unique challenges" posed by a higher crime rate and additional tasks such as royal events. However, he noted that efforts to improve outcomes for crime victims have been insufficient. The Metropolitan Police stated that it will "carefully reflect" on the report's findings.
The Metropolitan Police was criticized for its inadequate investigation of crimes and monitoring of known criminals, as mentioned in the report by HMICFRS. Consequently, the authority suggested an urgent review of their approach in these areas due to issues such as lack of training for investigators.
The report highlighted the Metropolitan Police's inadequate monitoring of dangerous sex offenders at large, citing insufficient training for officers and frequent pre-announced checks. In response, the authority recommended a thorough review of their methods in this area as well.
