Association of Chief Police Officers controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2011
DNA database retention controversy
ACPO's guidance on retaining DNA profiles from people not convicted of offences was challenged in human-rights litigation. The policy's exceptional-circumstances test was found unlawful, contributing to criticism of ACPO's influence over sensitive national policing policy.
2011
Oversight of undercover domestic-extremism operations
The Mark Kennedy affair and the collapse of a related prosecution triggered scrutiny of ACPO's control and authorisation of undercover units. The Home Office announced that three units would be transferred to the Metropolitan Police, and an inspection examined whether operations were lawful and proportionate.
2011
Criticism over presidential uniform
President Hugh Orde was criticised after appearing in a dark blue police-style uniform bearing ACPO insignia. Commentators and senior officers argued that the clothing closely resembled a force uniform and raised questions about its purpose and symbolism.
2010
London accommodation funded through counter-terrorism grants
ACPO was criticised over reports that approximately £1.6 million a year in government anti-terrorism grant funding supported as many as 80 central London apartments, many of which were allegedly unoccupied for much of the time. The organisation said it reviewed the arrangement and intended to reduce the number of apartments.