North Yorkshire Police urged by watchdog to keep better records of using force in custody
His Majesty's Inspectorate says better scrutiny is needed so they can be confident it's "necessary and justified"
A police watchdog has criticised North Yorkshire Police for not keeping proper records when it comes to using force in custody.
His Majesty's Inspectorate says better scrutiny is needed, so they can be confident it is "necessary and justified."
Their report has praised staff and says they are doing well to divert vulnerable people and children away from custody.
The inspection was conducted jointly by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, HM Inspectorate of Prisons and the Care Quality Commission in June and July 2022. It is part of their programme of inspections covering every police custody suite in England and Wales.
Elliot Foskett, Assistant Chief Constable at North Yorkshire Police, said: "We welcome the HMICFRS report, as it helps us to further understand how we can continue to improve our custody provision here in North Yorkshire Police.
“Working within the legislative framework, our absolute priority is the safety and welfare of detainees, avoiding any adverse level of risk.
“It is acknowledged that some processes, such as the recording of information, are not of the highest possible standard and this is something we have already started to look at.
“We are pleased the HMICFRS has recognised we have good measures in place to oversee the safe and respectful provision of custody.
“It’s also good to see the acknowledgement of the good work of our custody staff in relation to how they deal with detainees respectfully, patiently, and reassuringly, recognising the array of diverse needs.”
The full report can be found on His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services website.