New approach to out of court disposals will retain discretion for officers on the frontline

National Policing Lead on Out of Court Disposals, Chief Constable Lynne Owens said:

“We are pleased that the report and the Committee Chair, in his press release, recognises the work already being piloted in three forces to simplify a complex system, make it easier to explain publically and enhance the police’s ability to deliver rehabilitative options. We recognise the importance of localism and giving the public, notably the victim, a voice.  Therefore, there will continue to be some differences between forces as they respond to local demand.                                                                                                          

“While the report states that out of court disposals are being used incorrectly in 30 per cent of cases, this data comes in part from scrutiny panels, which have only been recently introduced with a remit to look at small samples of cases so they are not reflective of national trends.  The other data used is from 2011.

“The new approach we are piloting will engage the victim in the process, require offenders to take responsibility for their actions and retain discretion for officers on the frontline, which they use effectively and appropriately every day.”

HASC report here - http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a-z/commons-select/home-affairs-committee/news/150306-oocd-rpt-pubn/