6.0.2 Ill-treatment investigations should be evaluated by a coherent, uniform, nationwide system based on accurate statistical data relating to the complaints made, investigations performed, judicial procedures held and punishments administered. 6.0.3 The competent authorities should continually keep the public and law enforcement personnel informed with regard to ill-treatment investigations that are taking place, the levels of ill-treatment being detected, and the action taken as a result. In order to be effective, investigative systems must be continually evaluated. The CPT has therefore pointed to the need for a coherent system of statistical data with which to monitor the effectiveness of investigations into ill-treatment: “The variance in the above-quoted information makes it difficult to obtain a clear picture of the situation. The compilation of statistical information is not an end in itself; if properly collected and analysed, it can provide signals about trends and assist in the taking of policy decisions. Increased co-ordination between the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Prosecutor’s Office is clearly needed in this respect. The CPT invites the Bulgarian authorities to introduce a uniform nationwide system for the compilation of statistical information on complaints, disciplinary sanctions, and criminal proceedings/sanctions against police officers.”197 Awareness-building efforts are also important in order to build public support for the prevention of ill-treatment. VII. Obligation to deter 7.1 Legislative framework 7.1.1 States should enact substantial criminal and other legislation specifically criminalizing serious ill-treatment and establishing other responsibility for related violations. 7.1.2 The legislation adopted to prevent and punish acts of ill-treatment is to be given full preventive effect by determining appropriate gravity and range of sanctions consistent with the extreme seriousness of relevant violations. 197. CPT’s Report on the visit to Bulgaria from 17 to 26 April 2002, CPT/Inf (2004) 21, para. 24. Explanatory note ► Page 65

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