When was the Independent Police Complaints Commission Established?
The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is an independent authority responsible for investigating complaints and misconduct allegations against police officers in England and Wales. In this article, we will explore the history and establishment of the IPCC and its role in ensuring the accountability of police forces in the UK.
A Brief History of Police Complaints in the UK
Before the IPCC
Complaints against police officers in the UK date back to the early 20th century. Initially, complaints were investigated by each police force, which led to concerns about fairness, objectivity, and accountability. In the 1960s and 1970s, complaints were increased due to concerns about racial and police brutality. To address these issues, a new system was introduced, where complaints were investigated by an independent authority, which was initially called the Royal Commission on Criminal Procedure and the Police.
Royal Commission on Criminal Procedure and the Police (1970s)
The Royal Commission on Criminal Procedure and the Police, established in 1975, laid the foundation for the later establishment of the IPCC. The commission aimed to recommend reforms to the police and criminal justice systems. Their report, published in 1979, highlighted concerns about police complaints and emphasized the need for an independent authority to investigate complaints. The report’s recommendations shaped the development of the police complaints system, which paved the way for the eventual establishment of the IPCC.
The Independent Police Commission (1990s)
In the 1990s, the Police and Magistrates’ Courts Act 1994 was passed, introducing the concept of an Independent Police Complaints Authority (IPCA). The IPCA was meant to investigate complaints against the police, focusing on independence, fairness, and thoroughness. The IPCA was established in 1998, replacing the Complaints Authority of the then Home Secretary. Although some critics argued that the IPCC was not independent enough, it marked a significant shift towards greater transparency and accountability in police investigations.
The Independent Police Complaints Commission (2004-2018)
The Police and Justice Act 2006 came into force, replacing the IPCA with the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC). The new IPCC was tasked with handling complaints, investigating misconduct allegations, and making recommendations to improve police practice. In 2012, the IPCC introduced the Dorset Protocol, requiring police forces to notify them of serious incidents, investigations, and officer deaths, ensuring greater transparency and coordination.
Reforms and Changes (2018 onwards)
In 2018, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) replaced the IPCC. IOPC emphasized a more strategic approach to investigations, increased transparency, and enhanced support for investigations. The IOPC also introduced new measures for handling complaints, including electronic complaints and an online process for submitting allegations.
Key Milestones and Accomplishments
- 1975: Royal Commission on Criminal Procedure and the Police established
- 1979: Royal Commission report highlights need for an independent authority to investigate complaints
- 1994: Police and Magistrates’ Courts Act introduces concept of an Independent Police Complaints Authority (IPCA)
- 1998: IPCA established, replacing Complaints Authority of the Home Secretary
- 2006: Police and Justice Act introduces Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC)
- 2012: IPCC introduces the Dorset Protocol for increased transparency
- 2018: IPCC replaced by Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC)
Controversies and Challenges
Despite the significant progress in police complaints handling, concerns and controversies persist. Issues include:
• Bureaucratic Complexity: Critics argue that the IPCC and its predecessors lacked transparency and were overly complicated, making it difficult to navigate the process.
• Lack of Funding: The IPCC faced chronic underfunding, making it challenging to investigate high-profile cases effectively.
• Perception of Partisanship: Some questioned the IPCC’s independence due to its close ties to the Home Office and law enforcement agencies.
Benefits and Impact
The introduction of the IPCC and the subsequent reforms have brought significant benefits, including:
• Increased Transparency: Greater transparency and accountability within police forces and the handling of complaints
• Improved Investigations: Enhanced thoroughness and independence in the investigation of misconduct allegations and complaints
• Complaint Handling: Streamlined and more efficient complaint processes, reducing bureaucratic complexity and improving the public’s ability to access the system
• Community Trust: Increased trust and confidence within the community, as evidenced by improved police-community relationships and reduced allegations of racism and police brutality
In conclusion, the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has undergone significant changes and reforms since its establishment. Although controversies remain, the introduction of an independent authority has brought tangible benefits, including increased transparency, improved investigations, streamlined complaint handling, and greater community trust. As policing continues to evolve, so too must the IPCC’s role in ensuring accountability, fairness, and justice within the UK’s law enforcement agencies.
