Category: POLICE

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#MeToo False Accusations False Allegations POLICE

Police Contact with Therapists

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Police contact with therapists and the importance of making specific requests

Where a therapist is working for an agency and access is sought to the material generated, it is important that an approach is made to the agency.

If the police believe that the therapist holds material that may be relevant to the investigation, the therapist should be told of the investigation and alerted to the need to preserve relevant material.

Investigators are not required to provide extensive operational details to a therapist but it is important that any request for information is specific (e.g. spanning a specific time period and related to a particular issue), and the officer must be able to demonstrate to the therapist the relevance of their specific inquiries to their investigation. The therapist may refuse a request if they would be unable to comply with their own data protection obligations in meeting it, the data sought is not specific enough and/or there is no rationale for seeking it.

Where the therapist refuses to comply with the police request

If a therapist has refused a police request for material within therapy notes, the prosecutor should be informed. Investigators and prosecutors should request that the third party preserve the material and this request should be documented.

Tackling victim credibility myths

For detailed guidance on tackling common myths and stereotypes arising in RASSO cases see Chapter 4 and Annex A of the RASSO Legal Guidance.

When considering the impact of any apparent inconsistency between accounts provided by the victim to a therapist and to the police, prosecutors should note that therapy is not an investigative process and that, as such, there is no expectation that a therapist should take verbatim notes in relation to victim disclosures of potential criminality for the benefit of criminal justice agencies. The limitations of note taking during therapy should be considered by prosecutors when assessing the impact of any apparent inconsistencies.

The courts have long recognised that an inconsistency in accounts provided by a victim does not necessarily mean that a victim is not telling the truth – see the Crown Court Compendium Part 1: Jury and Trial Management and Summing Up Section 20-1 ‘Sexual offences – The dangers of assumptions’ Paragraph 14 (December 2020).

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#MeToo False Accusations POLICE

Rape prosecutions are plummeting

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Should police be able to seize victims’ phones or access therapy notes during rape investigations?

CPS guidance was updated last year to allow therapy notes to be requested by officers whenever they deem it relevant to their investigation, while previously they could only be secured if they were known to contain material capable of “undermining the prosecution case or assisting the suspect”.

https://yougov.co.uk/topics/society/articles-reports/2023/04/11/should-police-be-able-seize-victims-phones-or-acce

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False Accusations POLICE

How do Britons view false allegations of rape?

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While a majority of Britons say they consider false rape claims to be just as serious as the act of rape itself, when you ask them how someone committing each crime should be punished it is clear most see the latter as more serious

Most Britons say falsely accusing someone of rape is just as serious as committing the act of rape itself (61%), and a further 14% say it’s actually more serious. On the other hand, one in five (20%) say it’s less serious.

However, most clearly contradict themselves when asked what they think the typical punishment for each crime should be. While a majority of Britons (57%) say rape warrants a punishment of 10 years in prison (or harsher), just 16% say the same of making a false rape claim.

https://yougov.co.uk/topics/society/articles-reports/2023/04/27/how-do-britons-view-false-allegations-rape

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Dysfunctional Children EMOTIONAL ABUSE POLICE

Repeatedly Wasting Police Time

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While it is possible that someone who repeatedly wastes police time may have underlying mental health issues, it is not a definitive conclusion. There can be various reasons why someone engages in such behavior, and it’s important to approach the situation with caution and avoid making assumptions without proper evaluation or professional assessment. Here are a few factors to consider:

  1. Mental health challenges: Some individuals with certain mental health conditions may exhibit behaviors that involve making false reports or repeatedly contacting the police without a legitimate reason. Conditions such as certain personality disorders, delusional disorders, or attention-seeking behaviors might contribute to such actions.
  2. Attention-seeking or manipulation: Some people may engage in wasteful or false reports as a means of seeking attention or manipulating others. This behavior may not necessarily be linked to a specific mental health issue but can still be problematic.
  3. Lack of understanding or judgment: Certain individuals may have difficulties in understanding appropriate use of emergency services or may have impaired judgment that leads them to make unnecessary or frivolous reports to the police.
  4. Other underlying factors: There may be other underlying factors unrelated to mental health that contribute to someone’s behavior, such as a desire to cause trouble, a lack of awareness of the consequences, or a pattern of seeking control or power.

It is important to approach this issue with empathy and to encourage a comprehensive assessment by mental health professionals, if possible. Repeatedly wasting police time can have legal implications and consequences, and appropriate interventions may be needed to address the behavior and identify any underlying issues.

 © Linda C J Turner

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Antisocial Personality Disorder False Accusations False Allegations LINDA C J TURNER PERSONALITY DISORDERS POLICE Q & A with #LindaCJTurner SOCIAL SERVICES

Q & A – My ex is making false allegations

In the United Kingdom, if you believe someone is making false allegations against you, especially in the context of parental alienation, you can take the following steps:

  1. Consult with a solicitor: Seek legal advice from a solicitor who specializes in defamation or family law cases. They can provide you with guidance on how to handle false allegations and the appropriate legal steps to take.
  2. Gather evidence: Collect any evidence that supports your innocence and disproves the false allegations. This may include text messages, emails, witness statements, or any other documentation that can counter the claims made against you. Document any inconsistencies or contradictions in the allegations.
  3. Preserve records: Keep a record of all interactions, communications, and incidents related to the false allegations. This includes dates, times, locations, and individuals involved. Preserve any relevant evidence that may be useful in refuting the false allegations.
  4. Respond in writing: If you receive written false allegations, respond in writing, maintaining a calm and factual tone. Address each specific allegation, providing evidence and explanations that refute the claims. Keep copies of all correspondence.
  5. Consider mediation or alternative dispute resolution: If the false allegations arise within a family law context, consider suggesting mediation or alternative dispute resolution methods to address the allegations. These processes involve a neutral third party who can help facilitate communication and potentially resolve the issues without escalating the situation.
  6. Pursue a defamation claim: If the false allegations are causing significant harm to your reputation, consider consulting with your solicitor about the possibility of filing a defamation claim. Defamation laws in the UK can be complex, so it’s important to seek professional legal advice specific to your situation.
  7. Cooperate with legal authorities: If the false allegations result in legal involvement, cooperate fully with the authorities. Provide them with the evidence you have collected and comply with any legal procedures or investigations. Seek legal representation to ensure your rights are protected.
  8. Focus on your well-being: Dealing with false allegations can be stressful and emotionally challenging. Take care of your mental and emotional well-being by seeking support from friends, family, or professional counselors. Engage in self-care activities that help reduce stress and maintain a positive mindset.

Remember, the steps you take to address false allegations may vary depending on the specifics of your case and the jurisdiction within the UK. It is crucial to consult with a qualified solicitor who can provide you with accurate legal advice based on the laws and regulations applicable to your situation.

© Linda C J Turner

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CAFCASS LINDA C J TURNER POLICE Q & A with #LindaCJTurner SOCIAL SERVICES

Q & A – My ex is ignoring the court order!

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In the United Kingdom, if someone is ignoring court orders related to parental alienation, you can take the following steps:

  1. Seek legal advice: Consult with a family law solicitor who specializes in child custody and parental alienation cases. They will guide you on the specific steps to take based on the laws and regulations in the UK.
  2. Document the violations: Keep a detailed record of each instance where the court orders are being ignored. Note down the date, time, and description of the violations. Gather any evidence you have, such as text messages, emails, or witnesses who can support your claims.
  3. Return to court: With the help of your solicitor, file an application to return to court to address the non-compliance with the court orders. This application can request enforcement or modifications to the existing orders.
  4. Enforcement proceedings: If the other party continues to ignore the court orders, you can request enforcement proceedings. The court has the power to impose penalties on the non-compliant party, such as fines, community service, or even imprisonment in extreme cases.
  5. Change or modify court orders: If the non-compliance persists despite enforcement efforts, you can seek a modification of the court orders. The court may consider altering custody arrangements, visitation schedules, or implementing additional safeguards to address the non-compliance.
  6. Contact the Family Court Welfare Service (CAFCASS): CAFCASS is an organization in the UK that represents the interests of children involved in family court proceedings. They can be contacted to conduct assessments and provide recommendations to the court on matters related to parental alienation and non-compliance with court orders.
  7. Breach of court orders: In serious cases where the non-compliance is persistent and harmful to the child’s welfare, you can inform the court of the breaches. The court may consider issuing warnings, imposing fines, or taking other appropriate actions to ensure compliance.
  8. Inform the police: If the non-compliance poses an immediate risk to your safety or the safety of your child, you can contact the police and provide them with the relevant court orders and evidence of the violations. They can assist in enforcing the orders or providing protection if necessary.

It’s important to note that the specific legal procedures and options can vary depending on the details of your case and the jurisdiction within the UK. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified family law solicitor who can provide you with accurate and tailored advice based on the laws applicable to your situation.

© Linda C J Turner

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LINDA C J TURNER POLICE Q & A with #LindaCJTurner SOCIAL SERVICES

Q & A – Social Services and the Police won’t intervene?

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If you find that social services and the police are not intervening or providing the assistance you need regarding parental alienation, it can be incredibly frustrating and disheartening. In such situations, consider the following steps:

  1. Consult with an attorney: Reach out to a family law attorney who specializes in parental alienation cases. They can assess your situation and provide guidance on potential legal actions you can take.
  2. Document evidence: Keep a detailed record of instances of parental alienation, including specific behaviors, dates, and any impact on your child’s well-being. Documentation can strengthen your case when seeking legal intervention.
  3. Request a meeting with social services: Schedule a meeting with a supervisor or manager at the social services agency involved in your case. Clearly communicate your concerns and present the evidence you have collected. Emphasize the negative effects of parental alienation on your child’s well-being and request their intervention.
  4. Seek professional assessments: If social services are not responsive, consider obtaining professional assessments from psychologists, therapists, or child custody evaluators. Their expert opinions can carry weight in court and provide an objective evaluation of the situation.
  5. Consider mediation or alternative dispute resolution: Explore the possibility of mediation or alternative dispute resolution methods. These processes involve a neutral third party who can help facilitate communication and potentially resolve conflicts between the involved parties.
  6. Request a custody evaluation: In some jurisdictions, you may have the option to request a custody evaluation. This involves a professional evaluating the family dynamics and making recommendations regarding custody and visitation arrangements.
  7. Explore community resources: Research community organizations, support groups, or nonprofits that specialize in assisting families dealing with parental alienation. They may be able to provide guidance, support, and resources to navigate your situation.
  8. Raise awareness: If you believe your case is not receiving the attention it deserves, consider raising awareness about parental alienation. Share your experiences with local media, community groups, or online platforms. By bringing attention to the issue, you may find additional support and resources becoming available.
  9. Seek a second opinion: If one professional or agency is not providing the assistance you need, consider seeking a second opinion from another expert or agency. Different professionals may have varying perspectives and approaches to parental alienation.
  10. Maintain focus on your child’s well-being: Throughout the process, keep your child’s best interests at the forefront. Continue to provide a loving and supportive environment for your child, and seek therapy or counseling to help them cope with the effects of parental alienation.

Remember, the legal and administrative processes can vary depending on your jurisdiction. It is crucial to consult with professionals familiar with the laws and regulations in your area to understand your options and the appropriate steps to take.

© Linda C J Turner

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False Accusations False Allegations Pathological Lying PERSONALITY DISORDERS POLICE

Surrey PC Amanda Aston spared jail after lying about ex-partner’s abuse

A Surrey police officer who spun a “web of lies” about abuse by her ex-partner has been handed a suspended jail term.

PC Amanda Aston, 44, had an eight-month relationship with Sgt Matthew Taylor.

After they split up, she reported him for controlling and coercive behaviour, but was found to have misled investigators and was convicted of perverting the course of justice.

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-surrey-65672224

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POLICE

Q & A – Should you report a confidence trickster?

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Yes, if you have been a victim of a confidence trickster or a scam, it is important to report it to the relevant authorities. Confidence tricksters are individuals who use deception and manipulation to defraud others for personal gain, and they can cause significant harm to their victims.

By reporting the scam, you can help prevent others from falling victim to the same scheme. You can also assist law enforcement in their efforts to identify and prosecute the perpetrator. Reporting scams can also help you recover any losses you may have incurred.

The specific authorities to contact will depend on the nature of the scam and where you are located. In general, you can report scams to local law enforcement, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or a similar consumer protection agency, or a fraud reporting center such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB). It is important to gather as much information as possible about the scam and the individual who perpetrated it before making your report.

© Linda C J Turner

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POLICE

Confidence tricksters and fraudsters,

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Confidence tricksters and fraudsters are individuals who use deception and manipulation to obtain something of value from their victims. Confidence tricksters often use psychological tactics to gain the trust and confidence of their victims, while fraudsters often use false representations or promises to deceive their victims.

Examples of confidence tricks include schemes such as the “pigeon drop,” where a person approaches a victim with a large sum of money and a story about why they can’t keep it, then asks the victim to help them and split the money. In reality, the money is fake, and the con artist steals the victim’s money in exchange for the fake money.

Examples of fraud may include scams such as the “Nigerian prince” email scam, where the perpetrator sends an email promising a large sum of money in exchange for the victim’s assistance in transferring the funds. In reality, the email is a scam, and the victim is asked to provide personal information or transfer money to the fraudster, who then disappears with the funds.

Both confidence tricksters and fraudsters often target vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or those who are financially or emotionally vulnerable. It is important to be aware of these types of scams and to exercise caution when approached with offers that seem too good to be true.

If you suspect that you have been the victim of a confidence trickster or fraudster, it is important to report it to the authorities and to seek legal advice if necessary.

 © Linda C J Turner