Could you fairly determine disciplinary outcomes for police officers?

The Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner is currently recruiting for independent members of the public to sit on police misconduct panel hearings across Dorset and Devon & Cornwall Police.

Police & Crime Commissioners have a statutory responsibility to ensure that independent panellists are present at police misconduct panels arising from a complaint or conduct matter. These concern incidents where a member of the public has allegedly been adversely affected by the actions of a police officer.

The role involves assisting misconduct panels in determining a fair and evidence-based judgement, engaging constructively with both the legally qualified Chair and the senior police officer present and agreeing an appropriate sanction where necessary.

PCC Martyn Underhill said: “The statutory requirement to include independent members of the public in the process to determine whether a police officer has fallen short in upholding the expected standards is absolutely integral to maintaining public confidence in policing.

“It aims to provide reassurance to the community that misconduct matters are thoroughly investigated and proceedings properly adjudicated. I encourage anyone with the relevant skills to apply.”

Applicants must have strong analytical abilities in order to properly evaluate evidence and experience of working with disciplinary procedures. As well as being able to take a balanced and objective approach, applicants must have sufficient time to prepare for and attend hearings on an ad hoc basis. While infrequent, hearings typically last for two to three days.

To guarantee the independence of the process, serving and retired police officers, police staff, special constables and staff of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner are excluded from appointment. Independent members must be at least 18 years of age.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 28 February 2018. For further application information, please go to https://www.dorset.pcc.police.uk/get-involved/recruitment/