Community Scrutiny & Legitimacy Panel (CS&LP)
The role of the CS&LP is to scrutinise Norfolk’s performance in relation to the use of stop and search and use of force within its communities.
After each panel, feedback is sent to the searching officers’ supervisors to raise any learning points identified by the panel, and / or praise officers where a stop and search, or use of force interaction, has been handled well and the panel have been impressed with what they have seen.
The panel meet monthly to examine and discuss:
- The body worn videos (BWV) of stop and searches and use of force. The panel watch the BWV then fill in an online form independently before discussing what they have just watched as a group.
- The panel are looking predominantly at the attitudes and behaviours of the officers involved.
- The panel will, on the rare occasion they occur, look at any Section 60 authorisation searches. S.60 authorisations give the police powers to stop and search people and vehicles, without suspicion, for ‘offensive weapons or dangerous instruments’ for incidents involving serious violence. These powers only apply to a designated area in a local police force and for a set time only.
The panel also discuss:
- Any observations from members of public (including the panel) who have taken the opportunity to attend a ‘ride along’ and discuss any issues or questions raised because of one.
- Any points raised by officers after discussion with their supervisor.
- Data for month being reviewed i.e.how many stop and searches carried out in total, what percentage of those stops were on the Black community and what the disproportionality figure is.
Interested in becoming a member of the panel?
If you have any questions regarding the work the Community Scrutiny and Legitimacy Panel, please email the panels Chairs.