A NUMBER OF case studies of garda investigations – from the victims’ point of view – were published today in the Garda Inspectorate report.
The eight cases “confirm many of the positives of dealing with gardaí”, according to the authors, but they also raise some concerns.
The inspectorate concluded that the “whole approach to victim care and contact by the Garda Síochána needs to be urgently addressed”.
One of the assault investigations was particularly worrying.
It detailed a crime against a taxi driver who expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome of his complaint.
He had picked up a young male who was drunk. At the end of the journey, the male announced that he had no money, became aggressive and kicked the victim in the chest and damaged the victim’s car.
The victim called for help and gardaí attended and arrested the suspect. Gardaí told the victim that he was lucky not to be more seriously injured.
According to the written case study, the victim was highly satisfied with the first garda that attended the incident.
“He then provided a statement the following day to the same garda and at that time was told that the suspected offender was apologetic and that he had personal problems.
“Following on from that contact, the victim had difficulties in contacting the investigating
garda. Eventually the garda contacted the victim with an offer of compensation from
the suspect and after consideration, the victim agreed to accept this.
“The victim has no idea what happened to the suspect in this case.”
The Inspectorate says it is concerned that an investigating garda “appears to have negotiated a settlement between the victim and the suspected offender”, something which is not allowed under garda policy.
It has not checked up on the specific crime on PULSE in order to protect the anonymity of the victim, who came forward to help with the report.
The report concludes: “It is clear that a crime took place and if a charge or summons was not proffered, then an adult caution is available in appropriate circumstances.
“Garda policy on the Adult Caution Scheme makes it very clear that under no circumstances should members become involved in the negotiating or awarding reparation or compensation.”
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