Matthew Scott welcomes Kent Police being judged outstanding for accuracy of its crime recording
Published 15 January 2019
Kent Police has been named the best force in the land for its crime recording accuracy practices, to the delight of the elected Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Matthew Scott.
A report published today by the independent watchdog estimates Kent Police records 96.6% of crimes reported to it – higher than any other force. Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) found victims of crime are receiving an improved service, and said more are being offered additional support from the PCC’s core provider Victim Support.
Mr Scott commented:
‘I am delighted that Kent Police has been found to be outstanding for crime data integrity by HMICFRS.
‘The Chief Constable and his senior officer team have installed a culture whereby all Kent Police officers and staff understand their roles and responsibilities with regards to crime recording. Today’s judgement is testament to how far the force has come in a short space of time and I congratulate it for that.’
In 2017, the inspectorate had concerns with the way in which Kent Police was recording crime.
Mr Scott added:
‘A change programme was quickly implemented and the Chief Constable assured me things were improving. Today’s report confirms all the inspectorate’s recommendations have been completed. I’m pleased to see Kent Police is now leading the way in this vital area.’
Chief Constable Alan Pughsley said:
‘I am delighted to see such a significant improvement to our crime recording being recognised. This is testament to the hard work and commitment of our officers in ensuring we get crime recording right.
‘It is particularly pleasing that Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue has recognised the excellent progress being made and our proven ability to make significant advances since their last inspection.
‘We will continue to make further progress and build on the improvements we have made so far to provide the best service possible to the people of Kent.'