Possible failure to investigate - Norfolk Constabulary, October 2017

On 30 October 2017 Norfolk Constabulary received a report from the NSPCC that a child had been seen with injuries to its arm and head. Two officers from Norfolk Constabulary attended the address and checked the child for injuries. They had a conversation with the mother and left, having assessed that no further action was needed.

The child was taken to a GP eight days later. The GP raised significant concerns, having noticed a number of injuries. The child was taken to hospital in a critical state and has subsequently recovered and been taken into care.

During the investigation, a number of records were reviewed and officers were interviewed for misconduct relating to possibly failing to investigate.

Evidence indicated that both officers appeared to have conducted an investigation into the reported injuries, in accordance with guidance, as evidenced by their accounts, body-worn video and airwave recordings. The evidence suggested that officers correctly updated the relevant people and departments following their visit to check on the child.

Based on the evidence available, we found no indication that any person serving with the police may have behaved in a manner that would justify the bringing of disciplinary proceedings.

After reviewing our report, Norfolk Constabulary agreed.