Investigation underway into conduct of Cambridgeshire Constabulary officer during an inquest

29 Aug 2018 03:15 PM

An investigation is underway into the actions taken by Cambridgeshire Constabulary after a sectioned patient was reported missing from Fulbourn hospital on 16 November 2015.

William Stilwell, 23, was suffering from a severe form of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. His body was found later that evening by Sussex Police.

In September 2017 an inquest jury concluded his death was by suicide.

Following a complaint by Mr Stilwell’s parents regarding Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s actions on 16 November 2015 and the conduct of an officer during the inquest in September 2017, we launched an independent investigation.

Our investigation is examining allegations that the police constable failed to take appropriate action when Mr Stilwell was reported missing and Cambridgeshire Constabulary control room staff failed to act promptly on receipt of emergency information.

We are also looking at allegations the police constable gave a dishonest account under oath at inquest.

At this stage, the police constable has been advised he is under criminal investigation on suspicion of perjury in relation to his evidence at the inquest, as well as being investigated for potential breaches of the police standards of professional behaviour regarding his actions on 16 November 2015.

Regional Director Sarah Green said:

‘We are examining the original missing person investigation carried out by Cambridgeshire Constabulary in November 2015 and information provided by a police constable during Mr Stilwell’s inquest two years later.

“These are serious allegations which are now subject to a thorough and independentinvestigation.

“We have met Mr Stilwell’s family and will provide them, the officer involved and those affected by these allegations with regular updates as the investigation progresses.