Bereaved families have condemned the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) for lacking “empathy, sensitivity and compassion” during investigations into deaths in police custody. A report published on Monday by the watchdog itself found that relatives felt they and the deceased were “wrongly characterised or unfairly judged”. It also noted a perception that police officers receive more favourable treatment than members of the public.
The 111-page review called for improved training for IPCC staff on issues relating to race, ethnicity, mental health and learning disabilities. Mental health was identified as a major factor in many custody deaths, with around half of those who died in 2012-13 and almost two-thirds of apparent suicides afterwards having known mental health concerns. The report also highlighted insufficient attention to detail and delays in completing investigations, which added stress for all involved.
Marcia Rigg, sister of Sean Rigg who died in police custody in 2008, welcomed the report but said the watchdog had “not won the families over yet”. She criticised the initial inquiry into her brother’s death as a “Mickey Mouse investigation”, noting that officers were not interviewed promptly and were allowed to collude over statements. “We found that very insensitive,” she said.
The IPCC review included proposals such as requiring police officers to attend witness interviews as soon as possible after an incident. The charity Inquest contributed to the research, with co-director Deborah Coles stating: “The absence of a robust police watchdog has allowed corruption and dangerous practices to go unchecked.” The IPCC said it would consider discrimination in all cases and provide ongoing refresher training for investigators.
