Force's crime prevention rated 'outstanding'

Merseyside Police has been praised for its crime prevention work but its criminal investigations could do a lot better, the latest inspection report into the police has revealed.

Michelle Skeer, His Majesty's Chief Inspector of Constabulary said she was pleased with its performance in "keeping people safe, reducing crime and giving victims an effective service".

However she added: "I have concerns about how the force is investigating crime."

The force has received an "outstanding" rating for its preventing and deterring crime but its crime investigation "Requires improvement".

The force is also rated good in the following categories: Leadership and force management; Police powers and public treatment: and Developing a diverse and inclusive workforce.

It was rated "adequate" in the Responding to the public; Safeguarding; Managing Fraud and Providing safe custody categories.

Skeer said she was "pleased" to see its outstanding rating and its above-average numbers of neighbourhood officers which has proved "positive" in tackling neighbourhood crime and anti-social behaviour.

However she also noted that weaknesses in improving outcomes for the victims of crime highlighted in the previous inspection has only seen a slight increase.

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