Allegations of human rights violations by police officers in France include racist abuse, excessive use of force, beatings and unlawful killings. But cases arising from complaints of police ill-treatment are all too frequently closed without investigation.

Judges and prosecutors work with the police every day so they are inclined to believe their testimonies. Individuals who lodge a complaint often find themselves charged with defamation or insulting a police officer. Internal disciplinary investigations are not independent or impartial, meaning the odds are stacked against complainants.

Amnesty International has demanded action for a fairer system and called for the CNDS (Commission Nationale de Déontologie de la Sécurité (National Commission for a Security Code of Conduct)) or the future Defender of Rights, if it takes on this role, to have the necessary powers to ensure fair and effective investigations.

Write a letter to the French Minister of Justice, see letter below for reference, send the letter to:
Rachida DATI
Minister of Justice
13, Place Vendôme
75042 Paris Cedex 01
France

Related link
France: Police abuse goes unchecked in France - April 05, 2009
France: Defender of rights. Make the police accountable in France - January 01, 2009

Name:

Email:

Dear Minister,

I wish to express my concern at the current system for investigating complaints against the police, which is institutionally biased in favour of police officers and against members of the public. It must be reformed to ensure equal treatment for both sides, in line with the requirements of international law.

I urge you to ensure that the CNDS or the office of the new Defender of Rights, if it takes on this role, is staffed by expert personnel who are independent of the police, prosecution, and judiciary and has the powers to: receive complaints directly from the victim; independently investigate all allegations of human rights violations; refer a case for criminal prosecution and to appeal any decision to close a prosecution; order disciplinary proceedings be instigated; and make binding recommendations on the police authorities.

Yours sincerely,

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