Jury out on community officers

[Anthony Butcher]

Daily Mail

There is only "limited evidence" the Government's controversial community support officers have helped reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, a Home Office report said.

Although CSOs first took to the streets more than two years ago, the analysis of their impact on crime was inconclusive.

The report came on the day ministers gave the go-ahead for all CSOs to have the power to detain suspects.

The Home Office's interim study said there was evidence that some members of the public were prepared to pass information to CSOs that they would not have given to fully-sworn police officers.

But it added: "In some areas there are signs that some of the public may have a limited understanding of the specific role of a CSO and possible difficulties distinguishing between a CSO and a fully-sworn officer.

"Currently, there is limited evidence as to whether the presence of CSOs has an impact on crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour."