Home > yourrights > how to enforce your rights/the police > the police
> Prosecuting the Police: criminal action
Prosecuting the Police: criminal action
The IPCC is able to refer cases to the Crown Prosecution Service for criminal investigation. If the IPCC does not do this and you think that a crime has been committed it is possible to bring a private prosecution. You must get legal advice before bringing a private prosecution since you will need strong evidence if you are to have any chance of success. Under these circumstances there is no Community Legal Service funding available and a private prosecution can be very expensive, especially if the officer elects trial by jury.
It is important to realize that it is extremely difficult to succeed in a private prosecution and if you do lose, you could be made liable for the legal costs incurred by the other side. (See RIGHTS OF VICTIMS AND WITNESSES)
