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Fatal Inaction

When a convicted murderer threatens to kill his ex-girlfriend, why do police ignore her cries for help? John Waite investigates domestic murder and failure by the police to act.

A convicted murderer, threats to kill and numerous reports of stalking and harrassment. They're all factors the police need to take into account when a victim of domestic abuse calls for help. Too often, though, police are failing to spot the warning signs until it's too late. This, despite repeated concerns voiced by its own watchdog, the Independent Police Complaints Commission and detailed guidelines and procedures on how officers should investigate domestic abuse. Every week, two women in the UK are killed by a violent partner or ex-partner. So it's crucial police can identify who is most at risk of harm and respond appropriately. John Waite investigates the cases where police officers breached their own guidelines and failed those whom they needed to protect.

Available now

26 minutes

Last on

Sun 22 Aug 2010 21:00

Broadcasts

  • Thu 19 Aug 2010 12:30
  • Sun 22 Aug 2010 21:00