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Watchdog Says Four Northamptonshire Officers Must Face Misconduct Proceedings in Harshita Brella Case

The IOPC’s findings point to investigative and safeguarding failings in the force’s response to Brella’s abuse report.

Overview

  • Two detective constables have a case to answer for gross misconduct over alleged failures to review the case, set investigative actions, seek supervisory advice, and keep Brella updated.
  • A sergeant and a chief inspector face misconduct cases over their supervision of the domestic abuse investigation and the associated risk assessment.
  • The IOPC said its inquiry scrutinised investigation strategy, victim communication, and safeguarding, and it identified learning for Northamptonshire Police’s Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit.
  • Northamptonshire Police has been told to organise disciplinary hearings, with a police disciplinary panel to decide whether the allegations are proven.
  • Separate criminal proceedings continue as Pankaj Lamba has been charged in his absence and is believed to have fled to India, with an ongoing manhunt coordinated through international channels.