Hussey Comments on Police Ombudsman Report
Dec 6, 2011
Ulster Unionist Policing Board member, Ross Hussey, has commented on the public statement of the Police Ombudsman relating into the deaths of Trevor Buchanan and Lesley Howell. The West Tyrone MLA stated: ‘The Police Ombudsman’s Report must be painful reading for the families of the victims as it gives extensive details of the flaws and failings in the subsequent murder investigation and I would extend my sincere sympathy to them at this difficulty time. Constable Buchanan was an Officer I knew personally and he and his parents lived in my home town of Omagh and the whole town is mindful of their grief.’ ‘On the report itself; I welcome the fact that the Police Ombudsman found that there was no criminality associated with the actions of any officer involved in the 1991 investigation, however, there are also serious issues which need to be addressed. The Ombudsman concluded that the investigation was deeply flawed and also highlighted a lack of leadership. It was also concerning that the Police investigation showed bias in that they stuck so rigidly to the ‘suicide’ theory. It is not good enough that the families were failed by a poor investigation which lacked objectivity and focus.’ ‘It is appropriate that the PSNI have accepted the findings of this report and are reviewing their current procedures in this area.’
