Sussex Police need to improve crime investigation says inspector
The inspector's been looking into the force
Sussex Police needs to improve the way it investigates crimes to achieve better outcomes for victims - according to HM Inspector of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services.
It's one area bosses have been told needs to get better in a report released today, which highlights a lack of capacity in making sure that crimes are looked at in a timely manner to provide acceptable outcomes for victims.
Chief Constable Jo Shiner said: "I welcome this report and am proud of the positive changes that have been made, and acknowledged by HMICFRS, since the previous inspection in 2023.
"These ratings put us as one of the stronger performing forces in England and Wales, and one of the most improved over the last two years.
"The inspection is also stricter and more rigorous than before, and so to achieve the same ratings in many areas – particularly with limited investment – is a sign of success and testament to the hard work of our officers and staff across the county.
"As a force, we are very open to feedback and are continuously looking for opportunities to learn and improve. Many of the recommendations made in the report have already been identified through our own internal review process, and improvement plans are well underway.
"We will continue working alongside HMICFRS to accelerate and embed these plans to ensure we are delivering the best possible service for the people of Sussex.”
"We are absolutely committed to delivering an outstanding service to the people of Sussex, as they rightly expect, and although many improvements have already been made, we know there is still more work to do.
"We had recognised the need to make changes to our investigation processes and are encouraged by the positive feedback from inspectors on the measures that have been implemented so far.
" are operating in a challenging financial environment, particularly as one of the lowest funded forces in the country, but I will continue to explore all possible avenues to ensure we can effectively manage the demand we face in responding, recording and investigating crime.
"Catching criminals and protecting the public is at the heart of everything we do, and we will continue working and developing as a force to deliver the service our communities deserve."