I was a senior officer – and even I struggle to get the police to investigate crimes

‘The Met suffers most critical attention, but a key problem is the nationwide postcode lottery that says the standard of service you receives depends on where you live.’ Photograph: Marcin Rogozinski/Alamy

So the truth is out. For month after month, year after year, former police officers like me, and even disinterested observers, have been warning that our forces and those who run them risk losing the trust of the public.

Today comes tragic validation, and, if you listen closely, the sound of chickens coming home to roost. Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, the authority in these matters, says police are failing victims of burglary and theft, and missing chances to catch thieves.