Key information
Executive summary
The Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime (DMPC) is asked to consider an application for additional funding for £1950 (plus VAT) made by the Applicants in respect of separate representation in an inquest. Two previous applications were made in respect of these officers and granted by the DMPC, to the value of £39,050 (+ VAT) and £4,000 (+ VAT).
The DMPC has power to grant the application if she is satisfied that funding the member of staff legal expenses in the proceedings is likely to secure an efficient and effective police force. The DMPC has delegated authority, under 4.10 of the MOPAC Scheme of Delegation and Consent, to consider the current application for financial assistance.
Recommendation
The DMPC is asked to approve the application for additional funding made by the Applicant for the sum of £1950 (Plus. VAT).
Non-confidential facts and advice to the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime (DMPC)
1. Introduction and background
1.1. The Inquest proceedings commenced on 20th February 2017, and were scheduled to last for 2 weeks.
1.2. The factual background giving rise to the proceedings are as follows; on 1st September 2010 a male of no fixed abode was arrested by police for begging. He was taken to Forest Gate Police station and placed in a cell. He was assessed by a doctor who deemed him fit to be detained.
1.3. Seven officers/police staff were involved in the care of the male during his detention, five officers and two members of police staff
1.4. On 2nd September 2010 the male collapsed in his cell. He was provide with medical assistance but died that day.
1.5. There have been 2 IPCC investigations. The first concerned itself with the male’s detention, and examined whether his collapse could have been avoided. The second investigation looked at the actions of those involved in his care following the male’s collapse.
1.6. The first investigation concluded recommending that four supervisors face misconduct proceedings. All allegations against the officers were found to be ‘not proven.
1.7. In respect of the 2nd investigation there was no misconduct for the police officer who was the gaoler. It did conclude that there was a performance issue, but the PC, who was a probationer at the time, has undertaken regular Emergency Life Support Training as a mandatory part of his role, since the incident and the conclusion of the IPCC investigation in 2015. As such, the IPCC agreed that no further action was required. Actions of a medical professional were referred to the Nursing and Midwifery Council.
1.8. The five officers were afforded the status of interested party by the Coroner
1.9. There is a clear conflict of interests between the position of the Commissioner and the Applicants and accordingly the Applicant requires separate legal representation and financial assistance. This is supported by DLS who confirm that the officers acted in good faith.
1.10. The first application for financial assistance was made in 2014 for four police officers and then a second application made for a fifth officer in 2016. Authority was granted for financial assistance in respect of all five officers on two applications. They have the same legal representative who now seeks a CAP Increase in respect of their representation of all five officers.
2. Issues for consideration
2.1. For the DMPC to consider whether the additional funding will secure an efficient and effective Metropolitan Police force.
2.2. The DMPC has power to grant the application if she is satisfied that funding the Applicant’s legal expenses in the proceedings is likely to secure the maintenance of an efficient and effective police force.
3. Financial Comments
3.1. The solicitors acting for the officers have submitted a further estimate for a CAP increase of £1950 plus VAT.
3.2. The costs will be met from the 1996 Police Act Expenditure budget held within DLS.
4. Legal Comments
4.1. The DMPC has discretion under Section 3(6) and para. 7 of Schedule 3 of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 to fund police officers’ legal expenses in proceedings if they consider that providing the funding secures the maintenance of an efficient and effective police force, R -v- DPP ex parte Duckenfield (2000) 1 WLR 55. The Deputy Mayor has delegated authority, under para. 4.10 of the Scheme of Delegation, to consider the current application for financial assistance.
4.2. A conflict of interests arises between the Commissioner and the member of police staff which gives rise to the need for separate representation and financial assistance for the reasons set out above.
4.3. Home Office Circular 43/2001 provides guidance which applies to MOPAC. Para. 12 states “police officers must be confident that Police Authorities (now Police and Crime Commissioners) will provide financial support for officers in legal proceedings where they have acted in good faith and have exercised their judgement reasonably. Police Authorities will need to decide each case on its merits, but subject to that, there should be a strong presumption in favour of payment where these criteria are met”.
5. Equality Comments
5.1. There will be media and family/community interest in this case and the MPS cannot discount the inferences and potential for disquiet and distrust that can be brought about by any related activity such as stated above. Unless the community concerns associated with this case are managed effectively there is the potential for the family/community to distrust the police. To continue policing with the consent of the population it serves, the police will always seek to be open and transparent in the decisions we make.
6. Background/supporting papers
6.1. Exempt MPS ‘report on application for financial assistance
Supporting documents
PCD 176