Agenda item

The Panel considered a report of the Police and Crime Commissioner which provided details of the findings of recent assessments by HMIC Inspectorate of Constabulary into Police legitimacy and Police effectiveness (for copy see file of Minutes).

Councillor Armstrong informed the Panel that this was an excellent report.  He referred to the figures for Stop and Search for the force, which were nearly double the average of Durham’s ‘most similar group’ of forces and asked whether this had any positive impact.  He also referred to every reported crime being attended, which was something the force should be proud of.

The PCC replied that Stop and Search should be carried out ethically, proportionately and fairly and HMIC had confirmed that this was being carried out ethically within Durham.  Durham would continue to attend every reported crime because this was important contact with the community.

Mr Dodwell informed the Panel that a press release about the inspections which was presented to a PACT meeting he had attended was positively received.

Councillor Boyes informed the Panel that there had been a lot of stigma attached to the use of Stop and Search in London in the early 1980’s.  However, as long as Stop and Search was being carried out in an open and transparent manner he could see no problem with its use.

Councillor Boyes referred to the assessment which reported there was more to do in recording and publishing outcomes online and explaining how powers were being used following a community complaint and asked how this was being addressed.  The PCC replied that community triggers under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act were not being used very much, but the force was working on this.

Resolved:

That the report be noted.