Independent scrutiny: Real change
The Independent Scrutiny of Police Powers Panel (ISOPPP) have released their summary annual report from 2024. The Panel meet quarterly to scrutinise files and real-life footage of police officer’s using their powers, such as the use of Taser, Stop and Search and other use of force.
You can read the Panel’s overview from the year here Independent Scrutiny of Police Powers Panel Reports – OPCC for Avon and Somerset
2024 in numbers:
- 191 cases of officers using their police powers (Stop and Search/ Use of Force/ Taser) scrutinised
- 13 themes identified for discussion
- Over 240 hours of body worn video watched
Independent scrutiny: Real change
- Use of Body-Worn Video: Ongoing concerns about video quality have prompted continuous training and policy refinements
- Stop and Search practices: Panel insights have influenced new policies and frontline training initiatives
- Compliant handcuffing: Reviews of proportionality and necessity have led to a comprehensive force review
- Racialised impact of Strip Searches: Following the Children’s Commissioners Report, the Panel highlighted that Black children were 2½ times more likely to be searched, advocating for fairer practices
- Mobile phone searches during Stop and Searches: Despite legislative changes, this practice persisted in some areas, prompting us to incorporate it into ongoing training and monitoring
- Monitoring of S.163 Traffic Stops: Disproportionate vehicle stops, and inadequate recording practices have been identified, with ASP’s tactical lead now working to enforce stricter compliance
The ISOPPP
The ISOPPP is made up of volunteers from different backgrounds across Avon and Somerset. They play an important role in monitoring how the police use their powers of force and stop and search. Find out more about the ISOPPP
