Unprecedented challenges marked the period from 24 March 2020 to 31 December 2020 as the first UK lockdown was announced and enforced to curb the spread of COVID-19.

During this period, the Avon and Somerset Constabulary responded to numerous reports of potential breaches of "lockdown laws" from members of the public.

According to a Freedom of Information response, the constabulary received a total of 25,286 reports from the public about possible infringements of these laws during this time. These reports led to a variety of actions, including arrests, cautions, fines, and in some instances, no further action.

Out of all these reports, only two instances resulted in arrests specifically for COVID-19-related offences., neither of which led to any convictions. While responding to suspected COVID-19 breaches, law enforcement officers arrested 19 individuals for other unrelated offences.

The constabulary issued a total of 697 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) during this period for breaking "lockdown laws". Out of these, 473 were issued in direct response to the reported breaches.

However, the total monetary value of these fines is currently unknown as ACRO, not the Avon and Somerset Constabulary, manages these fines.

Interestingly, it wasn't just the general public breaching the law - internal violations within the constabulary came to light as well.

Seven police officers and three staff members were found to have violated COVID-19 regulations within the force in 2020 and 2021. These include five police constables, one inspector, and one sergeant. Despite these breaches, all seven officers are currently serving.

In April 2020, an officer was alleged to have breached lockdown rules by visiting friends and relatives. However no further action was taken.

In October 2020, some officers were reported to have disregarded COVID-19 regulations during a holiday by neglecting social distancing and mask-wearing requirements. These cases were addressed through reflective practice, which allows for learning from the situation to prevent repeat occurrences. A similar case occurred in January 2021.

On two occasions while off duty, another officer was alleged to have violated COVID-19 legislation. This resulted in words of advice but no formal action.

Another instance involved an officer allegedly ignoring self-isolation guidelines and violating regulations that they had previously enforced. This also led to reflective practice.

Another officer was accused of openly breaching COVID-19 laws by attending a party, leading to words of advice but no formal action.

Among the staff, three individuals were found to have breached COVID-19 restrictions. All three are still employed within the force.

In May 2020, a staff member allegedly made posts critical of government Covid19 guidelines on social media. This led to reflective practice.

Another staff member was reported in October 2020 for not following guidance while awaiting COVID-19 test results, leading to reflective practice as well. Lastly, a special constable was alleged to have breached COVID-19 restrictions by visiting family. This case was resolved, and no further action was taken.

A police spokesperson said: "As the world moves forward from the COVID-19 crisis, these instances provide valuable lessons for the service.

"These findings underscore the challenges faced by Avon and Somerset Constabulary during the pandemic, both externally and internally. Despite the numerous reports and internal breaches, the number of arrests for COVID-19 related offences remained remarkably low, reflecting our strategy to use engagement first and foremost, and enforcement as a last resort.

"The pandemic created an atmosphere where even law enforcers found it challenging to adapt to the new norms. These instances have, however, provided a learning opportunity for the force

"Through transparency and accountability, Avon and Somerset Constabulary remains committed to learning from these situations, aiming to reinforce stricter adherence to all regulations and instil safety measures within its ranks. The goal remains to be prepared for any similar challenges that may arise in the future, ensuringour ability to safeguard the community effectively."