Dorset Police is launching new public scrutiny panels to assess how the Force is using stop and search and use of force powers and is looking for panel members.
The panels are undertaken by the public, for the public and are designed to help the Force make improvements in the way that these powers are used and conducted.
They are made up of representatives of our local communities who will be asked to provide the Force with honest feedback on how we are using stop and search and use of force powers.
Successful applicants will watch Body Worn Video footage of real-life stop and search interactions and be asked to review data to provide us with honest feedback.
It is hoped that panel members will work with Dorset Police, and other community oversight groups, to help build and maintain trust and confidence with our local communities that we are using policing powers legitimately.
Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne, of Dorset Police, said: “The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) already scrutinises Dorset Police through the Use of Police Powers and Standards Scrutiny Panel. However, the Force is introducing this new panel as an additional layer of public scrutiny as part of our equality, diversity and inclusion commitment to ensure we are using our powers fairly and legitimately.
“Dorset Police has a clear vision of a safe county for everyone, and in achieving this we will use a range of policing powers including stop and search. We are committed to working with local communities to offer feedback on the way we approach this and help develop operational practice.
“This is a perfect opportunity for members of our local communities to be part of this process by reviewing our encounters and discussing openly our good practice along with how improvements could be made. I would encourage those who believe they can assist, to register their interest today.”
If you would like to join one of our panels, please email: StopSearchPublicScrutinyPanel@dorset.pnn.police.uk or register online: Stop & Search Public Scrutiny Panel
