A recent investigative study by the Commission, led by Lord Goldsmith QC, has unveiled significant gaps in how police forces across England and Wales address gambling-related issues during interviews with individuals in custody.
Findings of the Study
The study’s findings reveal a concerning reality: 40% of police forces surveyed fail to inquire about gambling habits during interviews with individuals in custody, despite well-established connections between gambling addiction and crimes involving violence and theft. This oversight hinders law enforcement’s ability to effectively identify and address crime directly linked to gambling.
Insights into Police Practices
Only 20% of the police forces examined actively screen for gambling harm and addiction during the custody process. Furthermore, a mere half of the remaining forces demonstrate awareness of the issue, highlighting a pervasive lack of attention to this critical aspect of criminal behavior.
Importance of Awareness and Intervention
Lord Goldsmith QC emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced awareness of gambling-related harms within the criminal justice system. He underscores that this knowledge gap extends beyond law enforcement to include prosecutors, magistrates, judges, and probation officers. Comprehensive awareness will enable more effective crime prevention and rehabilitation strategies.
Impact and Opportunities for Improvement
The Commission’s investigation, driven by Freedom of Information requests to 44 police forces, has identified clear opportunities for improvement. By implementing robust screening protocols and enhancing awareness across key stakeholders, law enforcement agencies can proactively address gambling-related crime and provide support for individuals struggling with addiction.
Recommendations for Change
Lord Goldsmith QC’s statements underscore a call to action. He advocates for systemic changes that promote education and training on gambling harm for all actors within the criminal justice system. By adopting these measures, the potential to reduce crime and facilitate rehabilitation becomes significantly greater.
The Commission’s study reveals a critical need for heightened attention to gambling-related harm within the law enforcement community.