REPS SPOTLIGHT
criminal charges. “I was shocked that PSD stated this was a criminal matter, shocked when it was submitted to CPS and equally shocked when CPS authorised a charge,” Andy remarked, emphasising that the officers’ response using the lowest level of force under difficult conditions should not have been viewed as criminal. The officers were ultimately convicted of common assault for using PAVA spray during an arrest, a decision that was later overturned on appeal. The presiding judge criticised the initial handling of the case, affirming it should not have been brought to court. “The justice system recognised the context these officers faced and understood that this should never have been put before the court,” Andy echoed. Andy’s observations underline a critical need for structural changes to prevent similar cases in the future. He suggests increased staffing to meet demand, stressing the importance of properly resourced and adequately staffed units. He also highlights those procedural misunderstandings, particularly regarding use of force legislation, can often complicate such cases.
To mitigate this, Andy advocates for
training PSD and CPS personnel in frontline policing perspectives, allowing them to assess incidents with a more nuanced understanding of on the ground realities. “Spending time on the front lines could provide PSD colleagues with valuable insight into the challenges officers encounter,” he explained. Federation representatives serve as indispensable allies for officers navigating complex legal processes. In cases like that of PCs Groves and Lott, Fed Reps not only provide legal guidance but also contextual insights that might otherwise be overlooked by legal teams. “Fed Reps can provide the legal team with insights from the ground,” Andy noted. They offer a “critical friendship,” helping officers articulate their actions and assisting the legal team in understanding the procedural realities and pressures officers face. Fed Reps ensure that the officer’s perspective is heard and validated, particularly in high-stress cases where split-second decisions are made. “We are there for guidance, context, and ensuring the voice of the officer is represented,” Andy stated, adding that Fed Reps’
Sussex Police Federation Secretary Andy Standing
presence contributes to officers feeling supported, not isolated, during these challenging times.
In light of this case, Andy calls on
“We are there for guidance, context, and ensuring the voice of the officer is represented.”
police forces to improve support for officers, from resource allocation to procedural training. He advocates for improved tactical
report-writing training, so officers are well- equipped to clearly articulate the rationale behind their actions, which could provide essential clarity in any subsequent reviews. “Investing in officers’ ability to document why they used force is crucial,” Andy said. Effective documentation would help ensure that decisions to use force are contextualised accurately, potentially preventing unnecessary escalation in future cases. Ultimately, the case of PCs Groves
and Lott serves as a powerful reminder of the high-stakes environment in which police officers operate. By implementing these changes and prioritising officers’ well-being, Andy believes that forces can provide safer, more supportive working conditions, allowing officers to better serve their communities without fear of unjust repercussions.
31 | POLICE | DECEMBER | 2024
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