Katie Simpson and Natalie McNally cases

Date asked:
Board Member:Nuala McAllister
Question type:Oral

Question

In relation to the Katie Simpson investigation, we were previously advised that all recommendations have been implemented following a Police Ombudsman report, and that a protocol in relation to the investigative mindset of officers had been added to the relevant manual, but it seems to have taken 5 years to do so.  In respect of the Natalie McNally murder investigation the declassification of the suspect (who was subsequently charged and convicted) in the early stages of the investigation allowed the individual access to the victims family for many days causing considerable trauma.  Why was the suspect declassified in the early days, what forensic investigation was carried out, and what will you do to ensure this does not happen again to avoid future mistakes with traumatic consequences? 

Answer

You can view the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmcF62dlm5A&t=1753s

The full answer to this question can be found at 2:00:20

Nuala McAllister – Alliance