PSNI Apologises for Flawed Investigation into Showjumper’s Death

Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has issued a formal apology to the family of Katie Simpson, a 21-year-old showjumper, following a critical report by the Police Ombudsman that revealed significant failings in the initial investigation into her death. Originally treated as a potential suicide, the case has come under intense scrutiny since authorities failed to recognize the suspicious circumstances surrounding her demise in August 2020.

Tragic Events Unfold

Katie Simpson, a talented showjumper from Tynan, County Armagh, suffered severe injuries during an incident in the village of Lettershandoney on August 3, 2020. Initially, authorities believed she attempted to take her own life. Tragically, she passed away a week later in the hospital, prompting concerns about the adequacy of the police investigation.

In March 2021, following mounting evidence, Jonathan Creswell—the partner of Ms. Simpson’s sister—was arrested on suspicion of murder. His trial concluded in April 2023 after his sudden death.

The Ombudsman’s investigation uncovered a critical oversight in the investigative process. Officers adopted a misleading assumption that Ms. Simpson’s injuries were self-inflicted, neglecting crucial intelligence that suggested she may have been a victim of controlling behaviors.
Hugh Hume, chief executive of the Police Ombudsman, remarked that despite pertinent information being logged, it “did not change the direction of the police investigation,” leading to an array of investigative failures.

Investigation Shortcomings Highlighted

The report outlined several key failures:

• Lack of Immediate Action: Investigators failed to conduct effective searches at Ms. Simpson’s residence, nor did they send a supervisory officer to the scene during the initial stages of their inquiry.
• Neglect of Evidence Collection: The police did not collect potential physical evidence, such as blood samples and photographs of Ms. Simpson’s injuries, despite being aware of her grave condition.
• Disregarding Prior Convictions: Law enforcement knew early on that Creswell had a history of domestic violence, having been convicted of assaulting his former partner in 2009.

Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck acknowledged the shortcomings within the police’s handling of the investigation, stating, “I unreservedly apologise for this,” and highlighted the need for accountability for the failures outlined in the Ombudman’s report.

Family’s Response and Call for Accountability

Katie’s mother, Noleen Mullan, expressed her family’s profound sense of emptiness after reviewing the Ombudsman’s findings. "Nothing has been achieved," she stated, calling for greater accountability among senior police ranks. The family is considering taking legal action as they seek justice for the devastating loss they have endured.

Kevin Winters, the family’s solicitor, described the Ombudsman’s findings as "a stepping stone on what’s still a long, tortuous road to justice for the Simpson family." He noted that while the report offered clarity, it also raised unresolved issues, including new complaints against a serving police member.

Next Steps and Ongoing Investigations

In addition to pursuing legal action, the family has filed further complaints with the Police Ombudsman. An inquest is also scheduled to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding Ms. Simpson’s tragic death, marking another phase in the quest for closure.

The Ombudsman’s investigation pointed to breaches of the PSNI code of ethics in professional duty, leading to disciplinary recommendations concerning six police officers involved in the case. So far, one officer has received a written warning, while actions have been directed towards performance improvement for others.

As the community reels from the impact of this investigation, the legacy of Katie Simpson continues to resonate. Her family remains determined to seek justice, ensuring that her story is not forgotten and that similar oversight is prevented in future cases.

For those interested in further exploring the implications of ethical practice in law enforcement and the importance of accountability, please follow the discussions being held in our Community Forum or explore our resources on Police Ethics and Justice System Reform.

We welcome your thoughts on this issue. How can the police improve their investigative practices to better serve families and communities? Share your comments below.