So what is a “policing purpose”? This really means that you are accessing data/information in the course of your work. You need have no fear of accessing systems providing it is related to your job. If you have any doubt whatsoever you should check first with a supervisor but in most cases it will be obvious what is and isn’t a “policing purpose”.

In the cases I have seen in the last 7 or 8 months the ‘misuse’ has usually involved conducting FIS checks on friends, neighbours, relatives, boyfriends/girlfriends etc. Sometimes people check ‘nominal’ records but checking the ‘vehicle index’ is also not uncommon.

I understand that sometimes you may be tempted to look at systems to try and find out something that may, for example, involve an associate, friend or relative. You may feel that because you have genuine concerns about a loved one that you are justified in checking the databases. All I can say is DON’T DO IT. A recent Court of Appeal judgement has reinforced the view that members of Police Forces are expected to maintain the highest standards of data integrity and that an abuse of this position is likely to be treated extremely seriously by the Criminal justice system. The prison sentence I referred to above is a very significant example of how serious this issue is. Just imagine for a moment the potential implications of checking your daughter’s new boyfriend!

If you have any concerns or questions regarding this, or wish to seek any clarification, please contact me by email at ‘PSD Main’ and I will gladly offer any guidance I can.

Regards

Det Supt Mark Lacey
Head of Professional Standards.