A GROUND-BREAKING documentary following the vital and challenging work of the officers and staff who investigate their colleagues will be broadcast on Channel 4.

In 2019, documentary-maker Story Films was invited into film with Avon and Somerset Police's Professional Standards Department (PSD), including their Counter-Corruption Unit (CCU), to shine a light on an area of policing which acts as a guardian of the high standards expected of those who take the oath to serve and protect.

The result is the three-part series ‘To Catch a Copper’, which will broadcast on Channel 4 on Monday nights from January 29.

Chief Constable Sarah Crew said: “When we first invited Story Films to follow the dedicated officers and staff who work in our Professional Standards Department, we could never have foreseen the intense publicity and scrutiny this area of policing would experience over the following years.

Gazette Series: Still of Avon and Somerset Police chief constable Sarah Crew on Channel 4 show To Catch a Copper“It’s abundantly clear the public’s confidence in policing has been critically dented by the horrific actions of officers like Wayne Couzens and David Carrick, and urgent recovery work must be undertaken to restore this precious bond we have with our communities.

"We knew that taking part in this documentary would be a controversial decision. Public institutions can be reluctant to open themselves up to this level of scrutiny, but people will see that we're facing into the issues, however uncomfortable, which I hope will help to improve trust and confidence in our ability to police by consent.

For more about why Avon and Somerset Police are taking part in the documentary, and what action they have taken, visit - tinyurl.com/bdfwfycc

“I want people to see that we understand their concerns, and we’re taking robust action to tackle all forms of misconduct, rooting out those who have no place in this profession and making sure they can never serve again.

“This programme will inevitably show the challenges and complexities of the misconduct regime we work within - a regime which is undergoing further significant change in the months ahead in response to public concern. 

“I want to be clear from the outset, we’re sorry for the harm and distress the cases featuring in this programme have caused.

"Some of these cases are upsetting and appalling and we wish they had never happened.

“These cases are the exception and not the rule.

"They do not reflect on the professionalism and caring approach of the vast majority of officers and staff who are passionate about their role in keeping people safe, as well as fighting for fairness and justice."