Ex-social work inspector to head Scots police investigations

A FORMER social work inspector will lead investigations into allegations of criminality within Police Scotland.

Irene Scullion is the new head of investigations with the Police Complaints Commissioner for Scotland (PCCS).

Despite not having any police experience, she will be second in command in the investigations side of the organisation, reporting to director of investigations John Mitchell, a former detective in Strathclyde.

The PCCS, which will become the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC) in April, is keen to have a broad range of skills.

In addition to former police officers, the organisation is recruiting a 20-strong team of investigators from the fire service, Trading Standards, the UK Border Agency and the special investigations unit of the armed forces.

It will investigate allegations of criminality within Police Scotland, deaths or serious injuries in police custody or following police contact, use of firearms and complaints against senior officers.

The organisation will also have a new power to investigate where there is a high public interest – even where it has not been instructed to do so by the Crown Office.

Ms Scullion said: “I am looking forward to meeting the team and to the challenge that lies ahead as we prepare to take on the expanded remit of the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner.”

Mr Mitchell added: “The commissioner and I are delighted to welcome Irene to the organisation at this exciting time.

“The complexity of investigations that we will be under- taking requires a head of investigations with extensive experience, expertise and judgment.

“Irene has demonstrated these qualities in her career and is accustomed to operating in a high-profile and highly sensitive environment.

“She brings a range of skills that complement my own and I am confident that she will quickly make a significant contribution to the investigations team.”

Police Scotland will come into force on 1 April.