IOPC

Complaints

The Independent Office for Police Conduct is the independent body responsible for overseeing the police complaints system in England and Wales. It investigates the most serious matters involving the police, including deaths and serious injuries following police contact, serious corruption, and conduct that constitutes a serious criminal offence. It also sets the standards for local complaint handling.

In practice

The IOPC may carry out an independent investigation, manage an investigation conducted by the force, or review how a force has handled a local investigation. Its decisions on disciplinary outcomes are subject to appeal. The IOPC replaced the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) in January 2018.

Related terms

Misconduct
Gross misconduct
Body-worn video

Last updated 24 September 2026