Sussex Police has been told it must improve the way it investigates crime.
The finding is one of a number of issues raised in the report by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
The report found the force did not have enough capacity to make sure it progressed a large number of open serious crime investigations. Only one in 20 victim-based crimes dealt with by Sussex Police in the year ending 30 June 2024 resulted in a charge or court summons.
The inspectorate found Sussex Police to be “adequate” in most areas of policing, adding it was pleased with improvements made in the past year. The force was rated “good” for its responses to the public and “adequate” in eight other areas of policing, including preventing crime and protecting vulnerable people.
However, the inspection team found the force must improve how it investigates crime, to ensure it consistently achieves more acceptable outcomes for victims. It said the force needed to make sure investigations were progressed in a timely manner and to an appropriate outcome.
Chief Constable Jo Shiner said the force was “operating in a challenging financial environment” and was “committed to delivering an outstanding service to the people of Sussex”.
She said: “I welcome this report and am proud of the positive changes that have been made, and acknowledged by HMICFRS, since the previous inspection in 2023.
“These ratings put us as one of the stronger performing forces in England and Wales, and one of the most improved over the last two years.
“The inspection is also stricter and more rigorous than before, and so to achieve the same ratings in many areas – particularly with limited investment – is a sign of success and testament to the hard work of our officers and staff across the county.
“As a force, we are very open to feedback and are continuously looking for opportunities to learn and improve. Many of the recommendations made in the report have already been identified through our own internal review process, and improvement plans are well underway.
“We will continue working alongside HMICFRS to accelerate and embed these plans to ensure we are delivering the best possible service for the people of Sussex.”