RIPA & IPA

Gain comprehensive understanding and legal competence in the use of covert tactics. This course covers the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) and the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA), focusing on correct authorisation, legal thresholds, and professional application to ensure all investigations are lawful and ethical.

• 6 CPD points
• Certificate of Attendance issued

Trainer overview

Brent is a enthusiastic professional whose career spans a combined 33 years in the West Midlands Police Service and the military, equipping him with exceptional communication and organisational skills.

Most of his service involved a variety of operational police roles, focusing on crime prevention, securing evidence, and engaging with communities to build trust and safety

Why join this course

Covert tactics carry serious legal responsibilities.

This course gives you the clarity and confidence to use RIPA and IPA powers correctly, ensuring all authorisations are necessary, proportionate and properly documented.

Why this topic is important

RIPA and IPA govern some of the most intrusive powers available to investigators.

Misuse leads to legal challenge, lost evidence and operational risk. Understanding the thresholds is essential for anyone working with covert tactics.

How it helps investigations

You’ll learn when each power applies, how to justify your decisions and how to work effectively within the SPoC and audit processes. This leads to stronger applications, fewer delays and better protection for your investigation.

Target audience

Investigators, intelligence officers, surveillance planners, SPOCs, supervisors and anyone involved in covert tactics or communications data requests.

Learning outcomes:

Distinguish when RIPA vs IPA applies and the thresholds for each.

Prepare proportionate/necessary applications with sound rationales.

Understand the SPoC process and audit trails.