The Corruption and Crime Commission has today tabled in State Parliament A report into WA Police Force's identification and management of at risk officers following a review into two use of force incidents by a first class constable. 

The report highlights the importance of the Commission’s oversight role relating to WA Police and its responsibility to ensure allegations of serious misconduct are dealt with in an appropriate way.

Although the two complaints related to separate incidents, they were similar in nature and in each case, the reporting officer questioned the appropriateness of the constable’s use of empty hand tactics, in particular using force to the head. Both incidents were reported by the constable’s peers and were subject to simultaneous investigation by the WA Police Internal Affairs Unit (IAU), who notified the Commission.

The Commission conducted a review of the actions taken by WA Police in relation to the two incidents and found that the lines of enquiry were limited with no contact made with the reporting officers, witnesses, or the person subject to the use of force. The review also identified that the constable engaged in further acts of force and unprofessional behaviour that weren’t identified or considered by the IAU investigations.

In the Commission’s opinion, both investigations by the IAU were inadequate.

Following its review, the Commission communicated its concerns to WA Police who committed to re-investigate both matters. This action was welcomed by the Commission. WA Police created an early intervention file for the constable to analyse any behavioural concerns. The analysis identified another two use of force incidents towards juvenile females by the constable that required re-investigation. The matter has been recommended for disciplinary proceedings under the Police Act 1892 s 23.

The Commission recognises a police officer’s job can be very difficult at times, and being regularly exposed to aggressive and volatile situation may adversely affect one’s ability to assess and react appropriately at times. WA Police must ensure it can identify and put strategies in place to assist and support officers who may be considered at higher risk of engaging in serious misconduct.

The Commission has recommended that WA Police review the early intervention system to identify at risk officers and give support, while offering other options such as retraining or reallocation of duties; and to consider the requirement to report use of force when empty hand tactics are used to the head or neck.

While WA Police has advised they don’t accept these recommendations, it is the Commission’s position that the implementations of such recommendations would reduce the risks highlighted in this report.

Read the report

A report into WA Police Force's identification and management of at risk officers