Response to domestic violence incidents - Northamptonshire Police, September 2017

We investigated the response and decision making of Northamptonshire Police following reports of domestic violence incidents in September 2017.

During the course of the investigation, investigators obtained relevant policies and procedures and analysed electronic evidence provided by Northamptonshire Police’s Professional Standards department. We found indications that the performance of a sergeant and a superintendent may be considered to have breached the professional standards.

At the end of the investigation, based on the evidence available, we were of the opinion that a sergeant had failed to consider relevant information, leading them to change the risk assessment from high to medium. We recommended that the sergeant be subject to unsatisfactory performance procedures. In our opinion, the superintendent had no case to answer.

After reviewing our report, Northamptonshire Police agreed with our findings. The sergeant received management advice to enhance their future development.