Summary: We will not investigate this complaint that the Council is engaged in a criminal conspiracy against the complainant. This is because the Council will send another complaint response.

The complaint

1. The complainant, whom I refer to as Mr X, says the Council is engaged in a criminal conspiracy against him.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. The Local Government Act 1974 sets out our powers but also imposes restrictions on what we can investigate.
3. We can decide whether to start or discontinue an investigation into a complaint within our jurisdiction. (Local Government Act 1974, sections 24A(6) and 34B(8), as amended)

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How I considered this complaint

4. I considered information provided by Mr X and the Council. I also considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.

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My assessment

5. Mr X complained a Council officer pretended to be a receptionist. He also complained an officer encouraged another officer to apply for an injunction against him. The Council responded to the complaint and signposted Mr X to the LGO.
6. Mr X has recently submitted another complaint that the Council has not yet responded to.
7. I will not start an investigation. This is because the Council has not yet responded to the most recent complaint. In addition, although it did signpost Mr X to us, it will, as part of its response to the recent complaint, provide a more detailed response to the initial concerns raised by Mr X. As the Council is prepared to re-address the points Mr X has raised, there is no need for us to get involved at the moment. If necessary, Mr X can send another complaint to us if remains dissatisfied with the further responses from the Council.

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Final decision

8. We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because the Council will send a further response.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman