Independent Panel Formed to Scrutinize Suspect Treatment in Greater Manchester Police Custody

An independent panel has been established subsequent to a critical inquiry that uncovered instances of individuals experiencing “humiliation” during their time in Greater Manchester Police (GMP) custody. This initiative addresses recommendations put forth by Dame Vera Baird in her report, aiming to guarantee “more humane and dignified treatment” for suspects after arrest. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham commissioned Dame Vera to investigate GMP. She expressed her hope that her report would represent a “landmark moment for policing” and “serve as a blueprint for the whole country.” The inquiry gathered testimony from multiple complainants, among them a woman who stated that subsequent to reporting being choked by her partner, she was herself apprehended and subjected to a “demeaning” intimate body search. Dame Vera stated: “This is the first time an independent panel will have wide-ranging powers to scrutinise how the police are conducting arrests, custody, strip search, [handling] domestic abuse [reports] and all of the other issues I raised in my report.” She added: “None of the panel have any connection with the force; they will be able to examine police activity completely independently and throw a searchlight on their actions.” The panel members will comprise individuals possessing professional or personal experience within the police and justice system. Individuals who have been arrested, along with representatives from victims’ groups, community organizations, a district prosecutor, and a former magistrate, are slated to serve on this panel. Kate Green, the deputy mayor for safer and stronger communities in Greater Manchester, commented: “Arrests and detention that are appropriate and maintain dignity are fundamental to the public’s trust and confidence in policing.” She continued: “That is why we are launching this new panel.” She added that the panel is expected to perform a “vital role” in examining GMP’s operations. Detective Chief Superintendent Ryan Davies, who heads custody and criminal justice for GMP, stated that the panel “reinforces our commitment to being held to account for our use of arrests and our performance in custody.” The panel is scheduled to convene in January 2025 and will submit its findings to Ms Green and GMP Chief Constable Stephen Watson. Approximately 60,000 suspects are brought into custody annually within Greater Manchester, according to the force.