Independent investigation to be launched in to police response to Stathern critical incident

The Independent Office For Police Conduct (IPOC) has confirmed it will carry out an independent investigation into Leicestershire Police's response to a major incident in Stathern.

On Sunday (27th July), a report was received by Leicestershire Police concerning children feeling unwell at a summer camp in Canal Lane. The report was made by a third party.

Following the report, officers were deployed along with the East Midlands Ambulance Service to safeguard those children concerned.

Due to the circumstances of the initial police response, the force had referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

The IOPC has now confirmed an investigation will be launched after reviewing evidence.

Police at Stathern Lodge on Thursday morning. Photo: NEMM

An IPOC spokesperson told NEMM: “We received a conduct referral on Tuesday (29 July) from Leicestershire Police relating to their handling of concerns passed to them over the wellbeing of a group of children.

“Our assessment team has examined all available evidence and concluded the matter should be independently investigated by the IOPC.

“The investigation will look at whether there were any breaches of professional behaviour – namely a failure to carry out duties and responsibilities – that resulted in a delay in Leicestershire Police’s response to what was later declared a critical incident.”

A 76 year old man who was arrested at the camp remains in police custody at this time.