Complaint Handling Reviews

The Complaints

The complaints in this case arose after the applicant was arrested and charged by the police in connection with historical sexual offences. 

We have reviewed the handling of two complaints, namely:

1. that Police Scotland failed to carry out sufficient investigations prior to charging the applicant on 13 June 2018; and
2. that Police Scotland only obtained witness statements after a request from the Procurator Fiscal, which would have provided exculpatory evidence prior to charging the applicant.

Police Scotland’s Decision

Police Scotland did not uphold the applicant’s complaints.  

Our Findings

We have found that Police Scotland handled both complaints to a reasonable standard. 

Nonetheless, we have identified a learning point for Police Scotland in connection with complaint 1. Our learning point should be implemented by Police Scotland within two months of the date of this report. 

Police Bodies : Scottish Police Authority