ADVERTORIAL


confidence issue. The criminal justice system continues to rely on court-based outcomes, even for lower-harm, high-frequency offences where victims seek resolution rather than prosecution. Victim satisfaction is declining. Officers report that cases end with “No Further Action,” not because harm wasn’t caused, but because the burden of evidential thresholds and public interest tests make prosecution impractical. In one county force, analysis of investigations showed that 83 per cent of cases involving a named suspect scored three or below on the Adult Gravity Matrix, mostly low-level offenders, yet the investigative response remained a formal one. These cases clog the system, frustrate victims, and waste officer time. A more victim-focused, outcome-driven approach is long overdue.


SMARTER JUSTICE: THE CASE FOR OUT OF COURT RESOLUTIONS


The revised two-tier Out of Court Resolution (OoCR) framework and updated Codes of Practice offer a significant opportunity. Used well, OoCRs let officers and victims agree proportionate, meaningful outcomes without the time-consuming delays of the traditional court process. This approach suits low-gravity offences where victims


want genuine acknowledgment, apology, and resolution – not lengthy proceedings that rarely bring closure. It gives suspects, especially first-time entrants, a chance to engage in accessible rehabilitative interventions addressing root causes of offending. But rapid scaling of OoCRs demands comprehensive infrastructure, automation, and organisational cultural change innovative tools can deliver this.


THE ROLE OF DIVERSION MANAGER Diversion Manager is a digital platform designed to streamline the entire OoCR process, handling everything from referral to outcome tracking. It enables officers to rapidly refer suitable individuals to evidence- based interventions and manage compliance and victim updates through one integrated system. The benefits are twofold: reduced administrative burden and transparent, consistent, victim-centred disposals. Police forces using Diversion Manager report significantly quicker case processing, lower backlogs, and stronger officer engagement with non-court resolutions. Crucially, it provides a supportive tool, freeing officers to concentrate on prevention, problem- solving, and valuable community engagement that strengthens public trust overall.


A SYSTEMIC SHIFT, NOT A SOFT OPTION Some critics equate diversion with leniency. In reality, well-managed OoCRs hold individuals accountable more immediately, more visibly to victims, and are likelier to prevent reoffending. They also ease pressure on overstretched officers and courts, making the system more responsive and humane. If we are serious about retaining officers, improving victim satisfaction, and delivering justice, we must expand alternatives that reflect frontline realities. Diversion Manager isn’t a silver bullet, but it is a powerful part of a smarter, sustainable solution.


BOOKED


Our new regular feature spotlighting books that resonate with the policing community. From gripping crime


fiction and real-life accounts, to memoirs, wellbeing, and personal development titles, each edition we’ll highlight stand-out reads for our members


THE MET ON TRIAL: THE SHOOTING OF JEAN CHARLES DE MENEZES. On the 20th anniversary of the tragedy, Steve Reynolds tells the definitive inside story of the investigation. One minute he was embarking on his final weeks as a detective chief superintendent pending retiring and taking up a post with the IPCC; before being asked to start immediately and join the investigation. https://amzn.eu/d/ifDYyb5


SUPPORTING POLICING STUDENTS: A HANDBOOK FOR LECTURERS, TUTORS, COACHES AND MENTORS This paperback integrates quality research and practice to help anyone in these roles provide optimal support and guidance to their policing students. https://amzn.eu/d/iQyJ8mI


THE REAL DEATH IN PARADISE: A TRUE STORY OF A BRITISH DETECTIVE FIGHTING CRIME IN THE CARIBBEAN For fans of the hit show, Death in Paradise, comes the real story of a British detective fighting crime and uncovering mysteries in the Caribbean sun. https://amzn.eu/d/9daQ04d


Got a book that belongs here? We’re always on the lookout for compelling titles. Whether you’re an author, publisher or simply passionate about a book that speaks to the policing world, we want to hear from you. Email sponsorship@polfed.org to get involved.


49 | POLICE | JUNE | 2025


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