Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC - formerly IPCC)
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National recommendations made following firearms licensing investigation
The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has recently published national recommendations it has made following an investigation into firearms licensing issues at Durham Constabulary.
The recommendations were made as a result of an investigation into Durham Constabulary which concluded the force missed opportunities to assess Michael Atherton’s suitability to remain in possession of his firearms and shotguns and to take action to remove them from him.
Atherton fatally shot his partner Susan McGoldrick, her sister Alison Turnbull and Alison’s daughter Tanya before turning the gun on himself in Horden, Peterlee, on Sunday, 1 January 2012.
The recommendations call for a uniform test of fitness to possess firearms and shotguns, reviews to be carried out during the term of the licence and for clear guidance and tighter restrictions in connection with applications where domestic violence has been a factor.
The recommendations have been made to the Home Office, the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) and the College of Policing.
IPCC Commissioner Nicholas Long said:
“Our investigation into the tragic events in Horden highlighted numerous issues and concerns regarding the granting and maintenance of Atherton’s firearms licences and shotgun certificates.
“We have already made a series of recommendations to Durham Constabulary but based on the issues which arose we felt it imperative that national recommendations were also proposed.
“The IPCC has previously made recommendations to the Home Office and ACPO in relation to firearms licensing as well as appearing before the Home Affairs Select Committee to provide evidence on this matter.
“We consider these recommendations will go some way to assist the review of firearms licensing currently underway by the Home Office.
“Once again I would like to express my condolences to the families of Atherton’s victims.”
Notes to editors: For media enquiries please contact the IPCC press office on 020 7166 3028
The national recommendations report can be found here.
