What are they?
The Police Reform Act 2002 and the Police (Conduct) Regulations 2004 require police authorities to compile and maintain lists of independent people to sit on police misconduct panels. This followed a ministerial decision to change the constitution of Misconduct Panel hearings, so that in disciplinary cases arising from a complaint, one of the panel members would be independent from the police.
Independent members are required in misconduct hearings arising from a complaint or conduct matter to which Part 2 of the Police Reform Act 2002 applies. These are incidents involving the death or serious injury of any person and those in which a member of the public had been adversely affected.
What do independent members of Police Misconduct Panels do?
Independent members are required to assist Misconduct Hearings determine a fair and evidence-based judgment about a particular police officer’s conduct and to agree an appropriate sanction. The appointment of independent members is aimed at reassuring local communities that misconduct matters are properly investigated and that proceedings are properly adjudicated.
Independent members are expected to prepare for, attend and participate effectively in Misconduct Hearings. They must be able to constructively challenge accepted facts and views.
Following appointment, independent members receive appropriate training and guidance on their role.
How do I become an independent member of a misconduct panel?
Your local police authority will advertise for independent members to sit on Misconduct Panels from time to time. If you are interested in becoming an independent member on a Misconduct Panel, you should contact your police authority in the first instance and they will be able to advise you whether there are any vacancies.