How does tHe IoPC work?
The IOPC’s South East team is based in Croydon, and describes itself as one of, if not the most, powerful and bestresourced police oversight body in the world.
Much of its work involves looking at deaths and serious injuries that can occur in police pursuits, shootings or in custody.
Among the high-profile cases currently active are that of William Smith, a murder suspect shot dead in Goudhurst in 2016, and Carl Maynard, who collapsed and died at Tonbridge Police Station last October.
Once a member of the public makes a complaint to the police – all of which must be recorded under new regulations – the IOPC decides whether to investigate the complaint themselves or allow the force to do so. If the independent body takes over, it produces a report after gathering evidence from CCTV, bodycam footage, forensics and accounts from the complainant and officers involved.
It will then decide whether there are any conduct issues. If their actions are deemed criminal, the case would be referred to the Crown Prosecution Service.