Misconduct within Greater Manchester Police rose by 24.3% in the last year, according to statistics released by the Police Crime Commissioner.
The statistics show incidents jumped from 301 cases between 2012- 2013 up to 374 in the period 2013-2014. The force only employ around 7,500 officers.
Allegations of serious non-sexual assault, discriminatory behaviour and mishandling of property more than doubled in that period.
GMP’s Professional Standards Branch, Chief Superintendent Dave Hull, told MM: “The figure increase does not necessarily mean there has been a rise in incidents but that staff are now more informed and confident about reporting issues to management confidentially.”
However, according to the External Relations & Performance Branch the increase of recorded complaints confidence levels in the police force have remained between 94% and 95% for the reporting period.
Furthermore, the report stated an increase in the number of police contact deaths, with 68 persons dying following police contact in the last year.
The report blames the reduction in adult social care services for the increased time spent attending calls for help in fatal situations.
Despite the overall rise, counts of perjury, tape recording, and traffic irregularity all fell.
“Over the past year, awareness has been raised using a variety of methods including training packages and days arranged with the Police Federation to help improve knowledge on recognising the signs of misconduct,” added Chief Superintendent Hull.
All boroughs Greater Manchester, except South Manchester, showed an increase in the level of employee complaints.
In Trafford the number of complaints for every 100 employees rose by 56%.
Chief Superintendent Hull said: “The Code of Ethics, implemented by the College Of Policing, is adhered to by all police forces across the country and emphasises the need for staff to behave in an ethical and professional way.
“I believe this again has led to officers and staff feeling confident enough to openly challenge and report conduct which does not meet those already high standards of professionalism.”
Tony Lloyd, Police and Crime Commissioner for Greater Manchester, said: “I rely on people letting me know when things aren’t being done right and that’s why I’ve set up a confidential hotline so people can have the confidence to report any concerns.”
Image courtesy of Mikey, with thanks.
