Fallout from rogue English cops’ actions, like Couzens and Carrick, stresses Scottish officers and affects public perception.
Kennedy mentioned officers face a tough job. They constantly deal with fallout from England, citing Couzens and Carrick as examples and adding that these cases stress Scottish officers.
He described a recent incident where officers visited an older woman who only invited them in after her son arrived. This shows public worries about police and officers’ fears about potential complaints.
Kennedy answered questions about Iain Livingstone’s comments that the force is institutionally racist and sexist. Kennedy agreed it affected public view of police, noting they must now fight against this perception.
He stated Scotland’s issues differ from England’s. They must show this issue cannot be generalized.
Jo Farrell now leads Police Scotland, and she agrees the force is “institutionally discriminatory.”
Kennedy explained trust issues are overblown, stating most officers, 99.8%, never face trouble. He believes more visible policing builds community trust, noting people should know their local officers.