WIREDGOV

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is investigating the actions of officers from Gwent Police after a woman was stabbed several times by her ex-partner, within hours of her notifying the force that he was texting her, in breach of a harassment warning.

Investigators are examining why police did not attend the woman’s address in Newport following the call on 19 July this year, and are also looking at actions taken by police in response to previous incidents between the two, dating back two years. Specifically, the investigation is considering how these incidents were risk assessed, resourced, progressed and linked.

Gwent Police referred the matter to the IPCC in July 2014 and, following the conclusion of criminal proceedings, in which Martin Bowen pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm at Cardiff Crown Court on 19 September and was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment, the investigation can be made public.

The IPCC has served notices on one police sergeant, four constables and two police call centre staff, advising them that they are subject to the IPCC investigation.

IPCC Commissioner for Wales Jan Williams said: "This has been a traumatic time for the woman and her family and my thoughts are with them. Our investigation is looking at how Gwent Police dealt with a number of related incidents involving the couple, beginning in 2012, and their response on the day of the stabbing. In view of previous IPCC recommendations to the force from earlier investigations, we will also be examining more closely what action has been taken to improve Gwent Police’s response to, and handling of, domestic abuse cases.”

Note to Editors

Serving a police officer or member of staff with a notice advises them their conduct is subject to investigation - such notices are not judgmental in any way.

For media enquiries please call the IPCC press office on 02920-266317