00:00When a police officer puts on a uniform, communities need to have confidence that the right checks have been carried out.
00:06But a new report from His Majesty's Inspectress of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services has raised concerns over vetting in Avon and Somerset Police.
00:18Inspectors examined over 37 cases and found that in 10 of them, the force had not properly considered risks or put in place safeguards.
00:28One example involved a recruit who was initially refused clearance by the vetting unit due to significant corruption risks.
00:37Senior officers later overturned that decision and employed the person.
00:42The inspectorate described this as unacceptable given the level of risk involved.
00:47The report also highlighted another case where an applicant's son had serious criminal matters recorded on police systems.
00:54Inspectors said these oversights showed a lack of robust processes to ensure only suitable candidates are recruited.
01:03The findings are formed part of an integrity inspection programme.
01:07Catherine Stone, His Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary, said integrity is fundamental and warned that misconduct damages public confidence in policing.
01:16She concluded Avon and Somerset requires improvement across all areas, adding that the inspectorate will continue to monitor progress.
01:27In response, Deputy Chief Constable John Riley said the force is committed to continuous improvement and welcomes scrutiny.
01:36The Constabulary also pointed out two significant investments over the past four years in its professional services department.
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