Shipman detective to return to work
07/06/2006
May I thank you for the way my accident claim has been handled, after my accident my confidence was very low indeed but the sympathetic handling of my case restored my confidence.
John, Sheffield
Detective Inspector Smith, who conducted an investigation into Harold Shipman in March 1998 and concluded there was no basis for concern, is to return to work.
Smith has been suspended on full pay since August 2003.
The police said that there were a number of reasons why no further action was being taken against Smith. These included the fact that the IPPC had decided not to continue with their investigation, and key witnesses being unable to testify. The chances of success of bringing civil charges was also thought to be so remote that they were unwilling to pursue it.
An investigation by the Crown Prosecution Service in March 2006 decided that Smith would not face criminal charges.
Dame Janet Smith, Shipman Inquiry Chair heavily criticised the police investigation.
A spokesperson for Alexander Harris, who represented the families of over 200 victims of Harold Shipman said:
"Following the Police investigation Dame Janet Smith was scathing in her criticism of Smith."
"It is unacceptable in the extreme not only for Smith not to be prosecuted by the CPS, but also for disciplinary proceedings not to be brought against him. The fact that he is now allowed to return to work, having been suspended on full pay for nearly three years is completely unacceptable."
Danny Mellor, whose mother was one of three women killed by Shipman said that he was appalled at the news that Smith was to return to work with no further action taken.
Back to news
If you would like us to provide you with advice with regard to your potential claim, please complete our brief claim form. We will reply to your enquiry within one working day.
Fill out our quick claim form
If you would like to speak to someone directly about your claim, please call our friendly team on:
0870 024 0558