PIP: Officer Recall Likely To Differ From Video Evidence

10 October 2025

Post-Incident Procedure (PIP) investigators must understand that it is natural for an officer’s memory of an incident to differ from video evidence, Sussex Police Federation has said.

Andy Standing, Secretary of Sussex Police Federation, was speaking following the Police Federation of England and Wales’ PIP Seminar this week. The annual seminar aims to keep Federation PIP practitioners up to date with legislation and regulations so that they can best support their members.

PIPs are carried out in all situations following police contact that have resulted in death or serious injury; revealed failings in command; or caused danger to officers or the public.

A number of Sussex Police Federation Reps have been trained to the same level as a Post-Incident Manager (PIM) and can support officers through the PIP process. Effective PIPs mean officers are more likely to be able to keep working in the job they love.

This year’s PIP Seminar focused on how body-worn video may not always reflect what officers saw and experienced during a split-second incident, and how PIP investigators should understand that this is normal and has scientific explanations.

Andy said: “I found this week’s seminar really insightful, especially the discussion around recall, and how memory and video evidence can differ so significantly. It was a valuable reminder that inconsistencies don’t automatically indicate dishonesty – they’re often a natural part of human recollection. It is vitally important that investigators understand this when assessing any inconsistencies.

“The emphasis on fair accountability really stood out too; ensuring that officers are supported through processes like PIPs helps create an environment where they can provide their best and most accurate evidence.

“It was also encouraging to see some of the Post Incident Managers from Sussex Police attending this event, as it shows that our force is investing in the continued professional development of its managers.”

If officers are involved in a PIP, they should consider the following:
● You may be treated as a suspect or a witness. This is a very fine line. It is in your interest that if you are being treated as a suspect you should say nothing until legal advice has been obtained. You have legal rights under the PACE Act 1984 and these should not be compromised.
● If, however, you are being treated as a witness, remember all conversations are disclosable.
● Ask the PIM to contact the Police Federation, which can arrange legal advice and other support including contact with relatives, refreshments and so on.
● Initial notes should only be made subject to medical and legal advice.
● The Manual of Guidance recognises that statements should only be made after officers have overcome any initial shock of the incident. Be guided as to when you are ready by medical advice, a solicitor or the Federation.