Mlc
Change can only occur when the problems are realised. I am sure you would not believe that the UK police is perfect. Individuals come in all shapes and sizes and just because they join the police service does not automatically mean they are incorruptible. Do you really think that no evidence is suppressed by the police or no evidence is changed just a little? Do you really think no improvements are needed?
You expect me to answer in a short posting? Have a read of "Untouchables, dirty cops, bent justice and racism in scotland yard" written by a couple of Guardian journo's.
The book highlights that the list of victims of police misconduct is a long one. The number of police officers who have been prosecuted for such crimes is very low.
It is a very good read and the two authors were unflinchingly backed by the National union of journalists. The book describes how they put themselves in great danger uncovering corruption!
My view, which has resulted from discussions with serving members of the police is that dishonesty gradually appears but the motivation is good.
An example that has actually occurred in the last few weeks. The officer realised that a particular individual is guilty of a series of burglaries but you know the case is week. This individual is going to cause more distress and trouble and by putting him away you are doing society a good service.
So the evidence is changed just a little. It went along these lines “did the burglar actually come in the house?” “no but he would have done” “ok say lets say he did come in the house just over the door step” This small change between which side of the doorstep makes a huge difference.
I used to fully agree, but now I feel this is wrong.
The culture of dishonesty spreads and the line between honesty and dishonesty moves. Dishonesty can then become acceptable, provided it is done for a good reason. But what if the reason is not good?
What if an officer realises that he can easily get away with fabricating evidence to “punish” someone who has pissed him off. Mlc, do you really think this does not happen? Are you absolutely sure if the flight got airborne no one would be tempted just a little? You suggest that there is not one officer that would ever fabricate evidence to punish someone? Say if I joined the police force, you suggest there is no possibility I could act dishonestly?
This is a game of evidence, admissible evidence, fabricated evidence, inadmissible evidence and non disclosed evidence (which should be).
MLC read the book, by becoming aware of the problems you may be able to do something positive. I have a good knowledge of the workings of the standards dept and the IPCC. The IPCC have no teeth whatever. The standards dept in many many cases exist to put on a show that complaints are investigated. They use every trick in the book to not investigate. If you want details pm me and I would be happy to advise as I don’t want to sidetrack in further.
My bottom line again is, if threatened by the police/ or any intelligence services for that matter, don’t push your luck. If you decide to ignore the warning you could be in deep !!!!!.