NPCC response to Channel 4's 'Dispatches'

A National Police Chiefs' Council spokeswoman said:

"Police assess the lines of enquiry in each case, such as witnesses, CCTV or forensic opportunities.  Police may choose not to investigate cases where there isn’t a prospect of a criminal justice outcome and the time spent on the investigation would not be proportionate.  We think the public would want us to use our time productively and focus our resources where we can get results for them.

“In cases where there is no further investigation, appropriate intelligence is captured and made available to local policing teams, and cases can be reopened if new information or evidence comes to light.

“Policing is under strain dealing with rising crime and demand that is more complex and an unprecedented terror threat with fewer officers. Police chiefs have expressed their concern about the impact on proactive policing that prevents crime, solves problems and helps people feel safe. We are working with the Home Office to review our demand and resources ahead of the next government spending review.”