THERE has been for some time a level of disquiet at the way some crimes are investigated – or not, as the case may be – by police forces, including West Yorkshire’s.

Now, a report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary has confirmed that some reported crimes had ‘little evidence of meaningful investigation’.

That is a disturbing revelation, and one that must be looked at very closely by the Police and Crime Commissioner.

Anecdotal evidence has suggested for some time that many so-called minor crimes, such as thefts from vehicles, were not attended, and the HMIC inspector’s report confirms this.

While there is also evidence of good practice, and West Yorkshire certainly fared better than many forces in the national report, these issues are clearly areas of concern.

There is obviously a tension between the level of crimes reported and frontline resources, and the force can only work with the officers it has available. But even if they can’t send officers to attend all reported crimes, they have to investigate them thoroughly for the sake of the victims.

While a smash and grab from a car window may be on the lower end of the criminal spectrum, it is the sort of crime that can often lead to more serious offences if the perpetrator escapes justice.

One member of the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Panel even accuses the force of failing the public. While that is a strong statement, it is clear that the Police and Crime Commissioner has some difficult issues to resolve to maintain confidence in the force.