WIREDGOV

The Independent Police Complaints Commission is investigating why Essex Police took a month to arrest a man for breaches of a restraining order and why officers did not take action sooner.

A woman in Southend-on-Sea told the police on 27 May 2014 the man had breached the restraining order by contacting her on social media and visiting her house.

A month later on 26 June 2014, the woman reported a third breach of the restraining order to Essex Police. The man was arrested later that day, and charged with a number of offences.

The IPCC began an independent investigation last month following a referral from Essex Police. The IPCC's investigation is looking at the force's response to the woman's report in May and subsequent investigation, including any delay in arresting the man for the breaches.

The investigation is also examining whether any risk assessment or victim protection measures were put in place after receiving the report, and whether officers complied with Essex Police and national policies relating to harassment and domestic violence.

IPCC Commissioner Mary Cunneen said: "Our investigators have met with the woman to explain our role and independent investigation into the force's actions after they received her report earlier this year. The investigation will be looking at whether officers complied with the relevant policies and guidelines."
 
ENDS

For any media enquiries, please contact the IPCC press office on 0207 166 3267.