It is good practice for police to seek the opinion of the OPP as early as possible where there appears to be substance to an allegation that a police officer has committed a criminal offence.50, PSCs Investigations Division includes a dedicated Discipline Advisory Unit (DAU) which assists investigators with all aspects of the discipline process, including the need to consult the OPP. While the audit identified that PSC does many things well, there is scope for improvement to ensure best practice in complaint handling and investigation by PSC. Figure 4 provides a summary of the types of relevant evidence considered, partially considered and not considered in the 59 files audited. An intelligence report outlining the investigators concerns could also have been submitted, if the investigator thought it warranted. He then took the next three days as sick leave (without a medical certificate) followed by a further three days of carers leave. One complaint of criminality not connected to duty (C3-3) contained notes to indicate it was not necessary to formally advise the subject officer of the outcome because he received workplace guidance in 2011 after admitting to the allegations. PSC advised IBAC that most of its investigators are now detective sergeants or more senior, to avoid difficulties associated with senior constables investigating more senior officers, and to address concerns raised in a 2012 internal review which identified issues with the quality of investigations conducted by detective senior constables. These file classifications and allegation types were selected to form IBACs sample in order to focus on the most serious complaints investigated by PSC. It goes on to note that recommended action might include management intervention, no action, admonishments, discipline charges, criminal charges, action in accordance with the VPMG, managing underperformance, and/or action on any identified deficiencies in Victoria Police premises, equipment, policies, practices or procedures.48, If a complaint raises allegations involving a criminal offence, criminal proceedings must be pursued before starting disciplinary proceedings. While a hair sample was taken within a fortnight of notification, the time lapse between detection and testing may have impeded the accuracy of the test. running sheet which states he obs[erved] MC on rear wheel exiting [street]. Unless your complaint is anonymous, an investigator will follow up with you or someone you have nominated on your behalf. Was the investigation competed within the time frames set out in the VPMG? Despite allegations that the police officer attempted to pervert the course of justice and was associating with criminals, no allegations were listed in the investigation report, which stated that the work file involved an intelligence probe only. PSC has developed an Integrity Management Guide (IMG) to assist police officers who are required to conduct investigations into allegations of criminality, unethical behaviour and misconduct involving members of Victoria Police personnel.10 While not a formal policy under the VPM, the terminology used in the IMG suggests that all complaint investigations should be conducted in a manner consistent with the IMG.