COMPLAINTS over police conduct across West Mercia have risen by almost a quarter in just three years.
From 2022/23 to 2024/25, the number of complaints made to West Mercia Police regarding the conduct of police officers rose from 1,719 to 2,239, a rise of 23 per cent, a Freedom of Information request has shown.
In South Worcestershire, 1,810 complaints were made in the last five years, with 390 made in 2024/25, and 478 in 2023/24.
This represented the two highest number of complaints in any force area within the last five years.
READ MORE: Man denies causing death of pensioner in crash on outskirts of Malvern
Superintendent Mel Paley, who leads the force’s Professional Standards Department, said: “Complaints can be made about any aspect of the police service, including decision-making, manners and courtesy, policies and procedures, a perceived failure to act, or the behaviour of individuals.
“There has been an increase in complaints over recent years, and this is mirrored across the country.
“At West Mercia Police, we are committed to ensuring concerns raised are considered fairly and consistently. Should a member of the public be dissatisfied with the outcome of a complaint there is also a review process.”
READ MORE: Police officer set to face misconduct hearing
9,759 complaints were made in total across the five-year period.
The most common reason for people to make complaints to the force were the general level of service given by officers, with 29.6 per cent of all complaints filed relating to this.
232 complaints of discriminatory behaviour were made over the five years, including 108 for race, 48 for disability, 28 for sex, and 16 for sexual orientation, and 35 complaints made related to abuse of position or corruption.
The outcomes of the complaints is not known.
READ MORE: Sentencing delayed for teen drug dealer caught supplying cocaine and heroin
SI Paley said: “We recognise that anyone who takes the time to make a complaint has a concern they want to be heard and addressed.
“Every formal complaint received is reviewed by our Professional Standards Department and assessed in line with statutory guidance to determine the best and most appropriate way of responding.
“More details about how we respond to complaints is available on our website.”
