The Ombudsman's final decision
Summary: We cannot investigate this complaint about the Police and Crime Commissioner. This is because the complaint relates to the investigation or prevention of a crime.
The complaint
In short, Mr X complains the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) has failed to deal properly with his contention that the Chief Constable is responsible for the actions of Sussex Police failing to investigate mortgage fraud. He also complains about how his complaint was dealt with.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
We have jurisdiction to investigate complaints about Police & Crime Commissioners but we are prohibited from investigating complaints about action taken by police and crime commissioners in connection with the investigation or prevention of crime.
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by the complainant.
I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
My assessment
I cannot investigate this complaint. This is because it relates to actions taken by a Police and Crime Commissioner relating to the investigation or prevention of crime. Therefore, it is outside of the Ombudsman’s jurisdiction.
Mr X also complains about the Authorities handling of his complaint. However, it is not a good use of public funds to investigate complaint handling when we cannot investigate the substantive issue.
Final decision
We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because it relates to the investigation or prevention of a crime.
Investigator’s decision on behalf of the Ombudsman
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman