Complaint Handling Reviews

The Complaints

The complaint in this case arose after the applicant was stopped by police officers while riding his bicycle. 

We have reviewed the handling of three complaints, namely that: 

1. On 2 February 2023, an officer threatened the applicant with arrest without providing a reason.
2. On 2 February 2023, an officer deleted footage of the applicant’s interaction with them from his mobile phone, and
3. On 2 February 2023, an officer refused to provide her shoulder number to the applicant when asked.

Police Scotland's Decision

Police Scotland did not uphold any of the applicant’s complaints.

Our Findings

We have found that Police Scotland handled complaints 2 and 3 to a reasonable standard, but not so complaint 1. 

Consequently, we have identified three learning points and issued a recommendation to address the shortcomings in Police Scotland’s handling of complaint 1. In summary, we have recommended that, taking cognisance of our observations, Police Scotland reassess the complaint and thereafter provide the applicant with a further response letter.

Our recommendation and learning points should be implemented by Police Scotland within two months of the date of this report.

Outcome

Police Scotland implemented one recommendation in this case. In this matter, Police Scotland provided the applicant with a well-reasoned further response which explained clearly why the complaint remained not upheld. Police Scotland also implemented three learning points whereby complaint enquiry officers were reminded of the: (i) importance of accurate record keeping; (ii) appropriate use of FLR, and; (iii) need to ensure complainers are advised of delays. We have received confirmation from Police Scotland that these learning points have been disseminated accordingly. 

Police Bodies: Police Scotland