POLICE Scotland has paid millions in damages since 2019 following claims against the force.
New figures, collected by Public Interest Lawyers through FOI requests to Police Scotland, reveal that the force recorded 2438 claims over five years, resulting in £3.2 million in payouts.
In the past five years, Police Scotland has paid out £3,277,818, with £1,683,240 paid in 2021/2022 alone.
Claims are commonly made against a police force when individuals believe they have been mistreated or that the police have abused their authority, such as in cases of malicious prosecution, wrongful arrest, sexual misconduct, assault, traffic accidents, and property damage.
The following year, 386 claims were made with only 56 of these settled.
This past year, there has been a rise in claims with a total of 564.
One of the reasons for a claim against the police is sexual misconduct as it has become the main source of complaints to the Independent Office of Police (IOPC).
The IOPC's May 2022 report suggested that the true scale of sexual misconduct within law enforcement is "highly likely" to be underreported, as many victims hesitate to speak out, fearing they won’t be believed.
Inappropriate sexual behaviour, such as making private contact, fostering dependence, or being overly familiar, has been cited in claims made against the police in the past years.
In the year ending March 2023, 1300 police officers and staff across the UK were referred to misconduct proceedings due to complaints and concerns about their behaviour.
Since 2019, compensation claims against UK police forces have included both public claims and those made by police officers and staff.
The most common claims are for property damage, with car accidents also being frequent.
More worryingly, claims for unlawful arrests, wrongful imprisonments, and forced property entries have increased over time.
Police Scotland reports that the most common reason for claims is motor liability, with 1438 logged, followed by 731 claims for public liability.
Speaking to Public Interest Lawyers, JF law solicitor Lucy Parker said: "The number of claims made against police forces in the UK shines a light on a crucial issue and highlights the importance of holding institutions accountable.
“Potential reasons to claim may include wrongful arrest, assault, malicious prosecution, or negligence however, it's crucial to remember that each case is unique.
“Reasons such as property damage and forced entry by police, without lawful justification, are serious matters and can constitute a significant breach of an individual's rights.
“If you believe the police have wronged you, it's essential to seek legal advice promptly to understand your options and potential outcomes."
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Compensation payments are dealt with on a case-by-case basis with a view to securing best value for the public purse."
