WIREDGOV

Following the inquest into the death of a woman who had prior contact with West Yorkshire Police, we have published the findings from our investigation.

Tania Clifford, aged 18, was found dead after being reported missing from West Park, Leeds in November 2016. The inquest into her death recorded a narrative conclusion. Our investigation, completed in August last year, looked at the actions of the force in searching for her.

We found evidence of a case to answer for misconduct for a police sergeant and an inspector. The findings were based on failures to conduct an adequate risk assessment in line with the force policy on handling reports of missing people, and the failure to properly review information given to them about Ms Clifford’s personal circumstances and concerns about her mental health.

Misconduct was found for the police sergeant and this resulted in management action. The inspector retired before the misconduct proceedings could be held. We made a formal recommendation, now adopted by the force, to ensure the human resources department contacts the professional standards department about retirement applications. This will also ensure we are able to follow the proper processes around resignation or retirements during ongoing investigations.

IOPC Regional Director Miranda Biddle: “This is a tragic case and our thoughts are with those who knew Tania Clifford. Our investigation found that more could have been done to search for Ms Clifford after she was reported missing. I am pleased that West Yorkshire Police have since adopted our recommendation, and that we can ensure the proper processes are followed when dealing with officers who retire or resign during ongoing investigations.”