Inspectors brand Northamptonshire police investigations ‘inadequate’
Urgent improvements needed to tackle ineffective investigations, report finds
An inspection report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has highlighted the urgent need for Northamptonshire Police to enhance its crime investigation capabilities.
Published today, 3rd June, the Police Effectiveness, Efficiency and Legitimacy (PEEL) report, report commends Northamptonshire Police's good practices in several areas, including fair use of powers and recruitment of diverse staff. Innovative projects, such as safeguarding and community engagement efforts, were also praised.
However, the report identifies inadequate investigatory procedures as a formal cause of concern, with only 11.2% of crimes achieving positive outcomes for victims as of September 2025. The Inspectorate has given Northamptonshire Police six months to implement crucial recommendations.
Danielle Stone, the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, expressed her concerns: “Investigating crime is one of the fundamental roles of policing and the Inspectors’ finding is troubling – victims must be served better. I have asked the Chief Constable to improve standards as quickly as possible.”
Chief Constable Ivan Balhatchet acknowledged the challenges faced by the Force but remains steadfast: “There is no hiding away from the findings around investigations, but I remain absolutely confident in our vision and strategy to drive up performance in an area which has been challenging for many police forces in recent years.” He praised the officers’ commitment to making Northamptonshire the safest county in the UK, despite growing complexities in police work.
Stone added, “I am pleased that the Inspectors are satisfied with many areas and agree that the Chief Constable and his team are reshaping the culture. I am grateful to every police officer and staff for all the work they do, every day, to keep people safe. Now there must be a focus on delivering on the improvement plans.”
The report serves as an essential reminder of the necessary improvements in crime investigation, with Stone highlighting, “Demand and complexity of incidents often outstrip the capacity to deliver. That places officers and staff under intense pressure.
''But people have a right to expect that if they report a crime, police will respond promptly, and it will be investigated as thoroughly as possible. That must get better.”