Martyn Underhill backs plans to reform IPCC (From Bournemouth Echo)

Martyn Underhill backs plans to reform IPCC

4:00pm Wednesday 13th March 2013 in News

DORSET’S Police and Crime Commissioner is backing government plans to reform the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).

Martyn Underhill said: “It’s right that the police are investigated by an independent body and not by themselves.

“We live in a democracy and to get broad public support for most things is unusual. But, on this matter, every person I have met in Dorset seems to agree.”

His comments came following an announcement that the IPCC is to be expanded to deal with all serious complaints against the police, with serious allegations investigated independently.

The IPCC is also being given new powers to compel officers to attend interviews and will soon have the power to investigate private companies working on behalf of the police. Mr Underhill said: “Hopefully, one day soon, we will see true independence in the way police are investigated.”