West Midlands Police has announced plans to introduce ‘self-service’ crime reporting as part of cost-cutting measures.
Chief Constable David Thompson said online methods of crime reporting for less serious offences was being explored as part of efficiency savings.
However, England and Wales Police Federation chairman Steve White described the proposals as “barmy”.
People will not be forced to use the service, but they will be presented with it as an extra option.
Under the plans, members of the public and small-business owners would be able to submit their own statements for less serious offences such as criminal damage, shoplifting and bilking, where people leave a shop or garage without paying, according to Thompson. As part of their submission they would have the option of uploading digital evidence, such as images captured by their smartphone, to the platform.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said: “We need to be at the cutting edge that enables those who want to be able to report crimes online to do so.”
Vulnerable victims would be directed to 999 or 101 services, he added.
But White said it was another example of chief constables recognising that they do not have the resources to do the basics.
Dave Thompson, left, with police and crime commissioner David Jamieson
Listen to the IFSEC Insider podcast!
Each month, the IFSEC Insider (formerly IFSEC Global) Security in Focus podcast brings you conversations with leading figures in the physical security industry. Covering everything from risk management principles and building a security culture, to the key trends ahead in tech and initiatives on diversity and inclusivity, the podcast keeps security professionals up to date with the latest hot topics in the sector.
Available online, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts, tune in for an easy way to remain up to date on the issues affecting your role.
