Crime and intelligence - Review of major crime policy (S1900)

1.1. This policy has been reviewed in February 2023. Minor amendments were made to reflect changes in terminology and practice. 

2.0 What this Policy is About

2.1 This policy sets out how the police in Essex and Kent will approach and undertake the review of major crime investigations. It outlines a process and structure which provides direction for those involved in the review process and provides the organisation with a mechanism to maintain, safeguard and develop standards in major crime investigations.

2.2 The policy aligns the provision of major crime reviews in both Essex and Kent together with legislative requirements and national guidance.
Compliance with this policy and any linked procedures is mandatory.

3.0 Statement of Policy

3.1 The importance of carrying out independent reviews of major crime investigations has long been recognised in the Police Service. The aim of any review is to constructively evaluate the investigation to ensure it conforms to nationally approved standards, is thorough, is being conducted with integrity and objectivity and that no reasonable investigative opportunity has been overlooked whilst identifying any good practice.

3.2 The conduct of reviews in homicides and other serious crime seeks in part to address the requirements of Article 2 (right to life). In addition, reviews are required to be undertaken following the death or serious injury to a child or following a death involving domestic abuse and in similar circumstances.

4.0 Implications of the Policy

4.1 Finance / Staffing / Training / Other

4.1.1 The delivery of specialist reviews should be undertaken or led by suitably qualified personnel, accredited investigators and review officers. The minimum standard is usually accreditation to PIP3 and completion of the national review officers training. Specialist experience in specific areas of child protection, vulnerable adults and covert policing methods are a requirement of some reviews.
Staff in the Serious Crime Directorate review team are qualified and able to offer advice and guidance if required.

4.2 Risk Assessment(s)

4.2.1 This policy has been assessed as low risk.

4.3 Equality Impact Assessment

4.3.1 An Equality Impact Assessment has been carried out and shows the proposals in this policy would have no potential or actual differential impact on grounds of race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, transgender, disability, age, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.

5.0 Consultation

5.1 The following have been consulted during the formulation of this document:
• Heads of Major Crime, SCD, Kent & Essex
• Senior Investigating Officers, SCD, Kent & Essex
• Head of Crime and Public Protection, Essex
• Head of Protecting Vulnerable People, Kent
• Human Resources
• Finance
• Estates
• IT Security
• Legal
• Freedom of Information
• Equality and Diversity
• Health and Safety

6.0 Monitoring and Review

6.1 Monitoring the practical application and effectiveness of this policy is the responsibility of the Serious Crime Directorate Head of Review, line managed by the Detective Chief Superintendent (SCD). An oversight board comprising the ACC (SCD) and representatives from local policing commands and training meet regularly to consider the application of this policy and the product of the reviews undertaken.

6.2 This policy will be reviewed every two years.