Lancashire Constabulary has paid a total of £768,345.37 in compensation claims in the last five years, new figures show.
Figures obtained by Public Interest Lawyers through Freedom of Information requests found that 771 claims have been lodged against Lancashire Constabulary since 2019. Over the past five years, the force has paid out a total of £768,345.37, with the highest amount coming in 2020/21, standing at £294,991.62.
Compensation claims made against UK police forces since 2019 can include both public claims and employer liability claims brought internally by police officers and staff.
Unlawful Arrest/False Imprisonment logged the most, with 241, with Damage and Personal Injury also seeing over 100 claims submitted.
In 2019/2020, 98 claims were lodged against the Lancashire Constabulary, which was the second-lowest number of claims over the past five years. A year later, this number decreased to 76 claims.
The service has experienced a huge rise in claims over the past year, with a total of 314.
Speaking to Public Interest Lawyers, JF Law solicitor Lucy Parker said: “The number of claims made against police forces in the UK shines a light on a crucial issue and highlights the importance of holding institutions accountable.
“Potential reasons to claim may include wrongful arrest, assault, malicious prosecution, or negligence however, it’s crucial to remember that each case is unique.
“Reasons such as property damage and forced entry by police, without lawful justification, are serious matters and can constitute a significant breach of an individual’s rights.
“If you believe the police have wronged you, it’s essential to seek legal advice promptly to understand your options and potential outcomes.”
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