Cops told not to report crime victims they suspect of being illegal immigrants

POLICE officers have been told they should no longer report crime victims they suspect of being illegal immigrants.

The national policy has been drawn up in light of the Windrush scandal.

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It states where a person reporting a crime could be someone without leave to remain, the “fundamental principle” is to treat them as a victim.

But if, during the course of the investigation, it becomes apparent they are here illegally, “it is wholly appropriate that the officer should contact Immigration Enforcement”.

The policy, details of which were reported by the Guardian, comes after cops faced criticism for sharing information about crime victims with immigration authorities.

In May, the BBC said more than half of forces refer victims to the Home Office for immigration enforcement.

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Yesterday Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer of the National Police Chiefs’ Council said: “It is right that officers should not take any immigration enforcement action themselves.”

But Corey Stoughton of campaign group Liberty said there needs to be a “complete firewall” between police and the Home Office to encourage victims to come forward.

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