<P> Forces could also refer matters voluntarily to the IPCC and the Commission could' call in' any matter where there might have been serious public concern . </P> <P> Once a matter was referred, the IPCC would make a' mode of investigation' decision to determine how it should be dealt with . This wais done by caseworkers or investigators who submitted an assessment to a Commissioner . The assessment involved judging the available information and could mean IPCC investigators are sent to the scene . </P> <P> The four modes of investigation were: </P> <Ul> <Li> Independent investigations carried out by the IPCC's own investigators and overseen by an IPCC Commissioner . In an independent investigation, the IPCC investigators had all the powers of the police themselves . </Li> <Li> Managed investigations carried out by police Professional Standards Departments (PSDs), under the direction and control of the IPCC . </Li> <Li> Supervised investigations carried out by police PSDs, under their own direction and control . The IPCC would set the terms of reference for a supervised investigation and receive the investigation report when it is complete . Complainants had a right of appeal to the IPCC following a supervised investigation . </Li> <Li> Local investigations carried out entirely by police PSDs, or by other officers on their behalf . Complainants had a right of appeal to the IPCC following a local investigation . </Li> </Ul>

Role and powers of the independent police complaints commission