Dorset people asked to help scrutinise police stop and searches

A public panel's being set up by Dorset Police

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 2nd Aug 2023

New public scrutiny panels are being set up by Dorset Police, for people to help assess how stop and search tactics are used.

The force is looking for members of the public to join the panels, with the aim of helping police to improvements.

The group's asked to give 'honest feedback' on how officers are using stop and search, by reviewing body worn camera footage from real-life incidents.

It's all in an efforts to 'build and maintain trust and confidence with our local communities that police are using their powers legitimately'.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne, of Dorset Police, said:

“The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) already scrutinises Dorset Police through the Use of Police Powers and Standards Scrutiny Panel. However, the Force is introducing this new panel as an additional layer of public scrutiny as part of our equality, diversity and inclusion commitment to ensure we are using our powers fairly and legitimately.

“Dorset Police has a clear vision of a safe county for everyone, and in achieving this we will use a range of policing powers including stop and search. We are committed to working with local communities to offer feedback on the way we approach this and help develop operational practice.

“This is a perfect opportunity for members of our local communities to be part of this process by reviewing our encounters and discussing openly our good practice along with how improvements could be made. I would encourage those who believe they can assist, to register their interest today.”

You can find out more about the Stop and Search Public Scrutiny Panel online, or by emailing StopSearchPublicScrutinyPanel@dorset.pnn.police.uk

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