Four Out of 10 Police Forces Failing to Screen Suspects for Gambling Addiction

According to a report by the BBC, four out of every 10 police forces across England and Wales are failing to identify problem gambling as a determining factor for criminal activity.

Screening for potential gambling addiction is an important step in the processing of a suspect as it can later be used in court as a mitigating factor. Critics of the police’s handling of problem gambling say that this lack of awareness and questioning is leading to some problem gamblers not getting the assistance that they need.

Lord Goldsmith, the chair for the Howard League for Penal Reform’s Commission on Crime and Gambling Related Harms, said:

“The police have got a lot to do – we have to recognise that – but this not a terribly difficult thing to do. This is something that can be added to the screening processes. We want people to be aware of this problem.”

The Ministry of Justice told BBC News:

Meanwhile, the National Police Chiefs Council said of the overall issue:

“We recognise there is still work to be done in this field and are gathering best practice from forces on early screening of gambling addicts, offering the right support and signpost to where they can seek further help. This approach requires partnership working, as police intervention often comes at a very late stage.

Therefore, we will continue to work with our partners to provide the support that anyone with a gambling addition requires.”

Olivia Richardson

Olivia has worked as an editor and writer for major brands across multiple niches. She now focuses on the iGaming and sports betting industries.