Despite being a third of crime in England and Wales fraud is not prioritised by the police, report finds
New research by the Police Foundation and Perpetuity Research has found that the police response to victims of fraud is inadequate. Despite fraud making up to 31% of all crime, and more than one third of victims reporting that the impact on them was severe or significant, fraud is not prioritised by the police.
Police Foundation and Perpetuity’s analysis of crime data and interviews with national and local practitioners found that the system for dealing with fraud is poorly structured, fraud prevention messages are confusing and victim support services do not cater for the specific needs of fraud victims.
This needs to all change! A designated department for fraud needs to be established in each police force. Designated specialist officers are required to deal with each fraud case from start to finish. Monthly updates should be compulsory allowing victims to keep up to date with their case. Each investigation should be completed within a reasonable amount of time allowing effective evidence gathering and a positive outcome from decision makers and the CPS.
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