Summary: We cannot investigate this complaint about the Authority. This is because the law excludes us from investigating the actions of the police.

The complaint

1. Miss X complained because she was unhappy an earlier investigation into police did not achieve the outcome she wanted. She said this impacted on her wellbeing.

Back to top

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 cannot investigate a complaint if it is about action taken by or on behalf of any local policing body in connection with the investigation or prevention of crime. (Local Government Act 1974, Schedule 5, Section 26, paragraph 2 as amended)

Back to top

How I considered this complaint

4. I considered information provided by the complainant and I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.

Back to top

Final decision

5. We cannot investigate Miss X’s complaint because the law does not allow us to investigate the actions of the police.

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman