IPCC to investigate Sian murder inquiry
The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is to investigate breaches of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 in the investigation into the deaths of Sian O'Callaghan and Rebecca Godden.
"Now that the criminal process has concluded the IPCC can start its investigation into the police investigation into the tragic deaths of these two young women. We were unable to start work before criminal proceedings concluded on the advice of the Crown Prosecution service.
"I have no doubt that there will be considerable interest in the circumstances that led to the IPCC investigations but I would urge patience while we find out what happened.
– IPCC Commissioner Naseem Malik"The IPCC has already concluded an independent investigation into five complaints against Wiltshire Police relating to the actions of the police during the investigation. Three of these complaints were upheld and the force has agreed our recommendation to offer the complainant an apology. The force has also confirmed to the IPCC that it has accepted our recommendation that it reviews its family liaison policy.”
The three complaints that were upheld by the IPCC were not related to Detective Superintendent Steve Fulcher and are not subject to any misconduct proceedings.
The IPCC is to conduct a separate investigation into allegations that Detective Superintendent Steve Fulcher from Wiltshire Police spoke about the case to some media outlets against force instructions, the force media strategy and policies. He has been suspended pending the investigation.
Sian murder trial: Halliwell jailed
The murder trial into the death of Sian O'Callaghan has ended, with the life imprisonment of her killer - taxi driver Christopher Halliwell.
Police reaction to Sian murder
Wiltshire Police have made a statement following the jailing for life of Christopher Halliwell for the murder of Sian O'Callaghan.