Clive Grunshaw, the Police and Crime Commissioner of Lancashire (PCC), has been accused of trying to thwart an investigation into alleged corruption within Lancashire constabulary.
The IOPC have upheld a review request against an unusual decision made by the PCC, refusing the investigate substantive allegations of corruption.
On receiving a formal complaint with substantive supporting evidence, the PCC refused to review any evidence and swiftly closed the complaint saying No Further Action.
On the official Police and Crime Commissioners website, Clive Grunshaw declares;
“I want to use my role to give the public a voice at the highest level and give you, the people of Lancashire, the ability to ensure that the police are accountable.
I aim to be your voice in the fight against crime by representing you and your concerns when it comes to the needs of your community.
The decision was sent to the IOPC to review and their conclusion was that the failed in his duty to record and investigate a complaint and directed the PCC to investigate.”
Mr Grunshaw goes on to say;
“Put simply, my role as Commissioner is to be the public voice in policing. When elected to this role, I wanted to ensure that the police service was accessible and transparent, but also accountable to the people of Lancashire.”
When taking office, Mr Grunshaw took the following oath; (https://www.lancashire-pcc.gov.uk/the-commissioner/the-oath/)
I Clive Grunshaw of Fleetwood do hereby declare that I accept the office of Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire.
In making this declaration, I solemnly and sincerely promise that during my term of office:
I will serve all the people of Lancashire in the office of Police and Crime Commissioner.
I will act with integrity and diligence in my role and, to the best of my ability, will execute the duties of my office to ensure that the police are able to cut crime and protect the public.
I will give a voice to the public, especially victims of crime, and work with other services to ensure the safety of the community and effective criminal justice.
I will take all steps within my power to ensure transparency of my decisions, so that I may be properly held to account by the public.
I will not interfere with the operational independence of police officers.
Concerns have been raised that Clive Grunshaw has intentionally attempted to look the other way rather than uphold his duty as the Crime Commissioner.
BBC Radio Lancashire have sought to be kept up to date on the investigation.
Article by: Paul Ponting
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