Police Leaders to Recommend Scrapping Non-Crime Hate Incidents in Upcoming Review
Police leaders are set to recommend scrapping the recording of non-crime hate incidents (NCHIs) in a review due to be published next month. The proposals would shift the focus towards the most serious incidents and aim to rebalance policing within the context of the social media era.
NCHIs refer to alleged acts motivated by hostility towards protected characteristics that do not meet the threshold of a criminal offence but remain on police records. Currently, Home Office guidance requires police to record these incidents to collect data on incidents that could potentially escalate into more serious harm.
However, critics argue that recording NCHIs diverts police resources and restricts freedom of speech. In October, the Metropolitan Police stopped investigating NCHIs, following calls from the policing watchdog urging all forces to cease recording them. Earlier in April, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for most NCHIs to be scrapped.
The Home Secretary will have the ultimate decision regarding the adoption of these recommendations, with the Home Office emphasizing the need for a consistent approach that protects free speech. NPCC vice-chair Rachel Swann stated that policing should not act as a referee in online debates and that free speech must be balanced with focusing on real-world risks to keep communities safe.
