What does being released under investigation by the police mean?

What does being released under investigation by the police mean?

As a result of the introduction of the Policing and Crime Act 2017 the police can no longer release someone on bail for longer than 28 days, unless this has been lawfully extended.  The police will now routinely release suspects under investigation.

What does being released under investigation mean?

If you are released under investigation it means that you are not subject to bail and at the present time you are not required to return to the police station. However, enquiries and the police investigation is still ongoing and you may be contacted by the police again and in some circumstances be arrested again.

You will be issued with a notice outlining any inappropriate contact with anyone linked to you case could result in further charges such as Witness Intimidation which carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison or perverting the course of justice which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

How can we help you

The changes to the law and procedure with limiting police bail and releasing people under investigation is to try and avoid people being on bail for lengthy periods of time, however the  reality is there is also uncertainty about how long you are left under investigation for, as there is no set time limit.

At Johnson Astills Solicitors we diarise your matter and make sure that we chase the police regularly to make sure that the police are investigating matters expeditiously.  If the police wish to interview you then we can be present during the interview to advise and represent you.  If the police take the decision to charge you at the end of the investigation we can represent you at Court.

If you require advice or assistance regarding being released under investigation or any other criminal matter then please contact our experienced criminal law defence team at Johnson Astills and a member of our staff will be happy to help you 0116 255 4855 (Leicester office) 01509 610312 (Loughborough Office).