Performance
audits
In
line with the revisions to the management structure, the Research and
Inspections Branch is developing a detailed audit system that can provide
managers with relevant information that:
- supports
the management process
- provides
checks and balances
- facilitates
informed operational and managerial decisions
The
new management package incorporating this audit element should be
operational within the financial year 2001-2002.
Maintaining
discipline
Every
effort is made to ensure that the behaviour and ethics of Police meet the
highest standards. Any complaints or evidence of misdemeanours are
rigorously pursued through the Branch's Complaints Against Police Office
(CAPO) and the Internal Investigations Office (IIO).
CAPO investigates all public complaints against members of the Force,
including auxiliary police, traffic wardens and civilian staff. Such
investigations are monitored by the Independent Police Complaints Council
(IPCC), an independent body that comprises non-police members appointed by
the Chief Executive.
Impartiality
As
a further means to ensure transparency and impartiality, a 'Lay Observer
Scheme' has been established whereby observers attached to IPCC can be
present during interviews of both complainers and the accused, sometimes
without prior notification. During the year, the number of observers was
increased to 57 so that they could also attend informal resolution cases
and investigations carried out by District Commands into minor complaints.
A further measure introduced in 2000 was the addition of video interview
facilities in every CAPO office.
During the year, members of the public lodged 3 673 complaints against the
Police, some 19 per cent more than in 1999. The vast majority related to
'neglect of duty' or 'misconduct and improper manner'. The IPCC endorsed 3
548 investigations, of which almost 40 per cent were classified as
'withdrawn' or 'not pursuable', and some 30 per cent were minor or trivial
complaints settled by informal resolution. Of the complaints that were
fully investigated, 13.8 per cent were substantiated, leading to 48 police
officers being disciplined.
The IIO is primarily responsible for conducting supervisory accountability
and related studies into the activities of police officers. It has a
secondary role of investigating disciplinary breaches and other misconduct
brought to light as a result of enquiries conducted by other government
agencies. As a consequence, the IIO maintains liaison with other
government departments, in particular the Independent Commission Against
Corruption (ICAC). |