WIREDGOV

Sussex Police has accepted six learning recommendations put forward by the IPCC to improve the way the force handles cases involving stalking and harassment.

The recommendations were made as part of the ongoing investigation into the interactions Sussex Police had with 19-year-old Shana Grice prior to her tragic death in Brighton in August 2016.

Michael Lane, 27, of Portslade was convicted of her murder last month. He was handed a life sentence to serve a minimum 25 years in custody.

Associate Commissioner at the IPCC Tom Milsom has made six quick-time learning recommendations to Sussex Police, based on information that has so far been made available during the ongoing investigation.

The recommendations include improvements to the way officers are trained in recognising cases involving stalking and harassment, and how to best safeguard victims.

They also focus on improvements to data storage and retrieval, better use of existing systems to ensure relevant information is accurately logged, considered and reviewed.

Mr Milsom said: “I am encouraged by Sussex Police’s positive response to the recommendations I have made as part of our ongoinginvestigation. Stalking and harassment are serious offences and in certain situations, such as those involving Shana, can have tragic consequences.

“I am also pleased to see the work Sussex Police has been doing this week, in association with Suzy Lamplugh Trust as part of National Stalking Awareness Week to encourage those who believe they have been the victims of this behaviour to come forward and report it.

At this stage of the investigation 12 members of staff with Sussex Police have been identified as subjects of the inquiry.