The Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Alison Hernandez, has praised Devon and Cornwall Police and said that the inspection result should give communities confidence in their police force during this uncertain time.
She said: “I am delighted with this grading which is a testament to the hard work of the Chief Constable, police officers, staff and volunteers and their commitment to keeping our communities safe.
“I was particularly pleased to see the recognition given by the inspectorate to the Force’s continued improvement in protecting vulnerable people. During the Covid-19 crisis we are seeing a huge combined effort by statutory agencies, organisations, businesses and local community groups to protect the most vulnerable amongst us and the public can be confident now more than ever that Devon and Cornwall Police will continue to work tirelessly to protect those in our communities who really need them the most.
“It is also pleasing to see that the Inspectorate recognises that the Force acts ethically and lawfully in its behaviour. The new police powers that are now in place to ensure that people stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives, mean that officers need to be sensible and pragmatic and apply their judgement especially when faced with difficult circumstances. This recognition by the Inspectorate shows that the Force is in a good position to do just that.
“The report does state that the Force requires improvement in how it investigates crime including those that involve vulnerable people. I recognise the work the Force is doing in this area and my office will continue to work closely with the Force while it continues to implement its Investigations Standards Plan under the leadership of the Chief Constable.
“I am confident that with the robust measures currently in place to assist in improving investigations, the next report should recognise the changes made.
“I will continue to lobby Government and fight for the additional funding that Devon and Cornwall Police deserve and asking them to recognise our area’s exceptional circumstances.”