Complaint Handling Reviews

The Complaint

The complaint in this case arose after the applicant reported drug dealing activity to the police. The applicant regularly made reports to Police Scotland about drug dealing which was taking place at a neighbouring flat.  The applicant also reported anti-social behaviour in and around the shared entrance and stairwell.

We have reviewed the handling of one complaint, namely that: 

1. There has been a lack of police action over a period of three years in relation to the applicant's reports about drug dealing.

Police Scotland's Decision

Police Scotland did not uphold the applicant’s complaint. 

Our Findings

We have found that Police Scotland did not handle the applicant’s complaint to a reasonable standard.

Consequently, we have made a recommendation to address the shortcomings in Police Scotland’s handling of the complaint. In summary, we have asked Police Scotland to clarify the crux of the applicant’s complaint. Thereafter, Police Scotland should conduct enquiries into the complaint and provide the applicant with a further response.

Our recommendation 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 doing so, Police Scotland sought to clarify the crux of the complaint with the applicant and having done so, carried out further necessary and proportionate enquiries in this regard. Thereafter, Police Scotland provided the applicant with a well-reasoned further response and clearly explained why the complaint remained ‘not upheld’. The response also apologised to the applicant for the length of time taken to deal with the complaint.

Police Bodies: Police Scotland