Wiltshire Police Review Uncovers 33 Clare’s Law Failures
Wiltshire Police have wrapped up a major review of 3,778 applications under the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, better known as Clare’s Law. The urgent probe was launched after serious service failures came to light following the tragic murder of 14-year-old Tomasz Oleszak in Gateshead last October.
What the Review Found
- 33 Failures: Less than 1% of applications checked showed issues—14 administrative slip-ups and 17 service failures, including non-disclosure and poor research.
- Two Victims Harmed: Sadly, two cases involved people who were hurt due to these failures.
- Suspended Staff: One Wiltshire Police employee remains suspended amid an ongoing IOPC investigation.
- Multiple IOPC Referrals: Five cases, including the initial referral, were passed to the Independent Office for Police Conduct. These involved harm caused, administrative mistakes, and poor organisational responses to earlier complaints in 2019 and 2020.
Chief Constable’s Stark Admission
Chief Constable Catherine Roper said: “We let people down and now know our failures may have contributed to at least two people being harmed. This is completely unacceptable and appalling.”
She explained that as soon as these failings were spotted, extra resources were put in place to review all applications dating back to April 2015. The force conducted risk assessments to prioritise those needing urgent help.
Wiltshire Police Urge Public Vigilance
Despite the thorough review, some individuals could not be contacted due to safety concerns. Wiltshire Police remains committed to reaching out when it’s safe.
Chief Constable Roper urged anyone with concerns to speak up: “I know we have caused anxiety, but please come forward if you fear someone is at risk of domestic abuse.”
The IOPC investigation continues, with Wiltshire Police providing regular updates. New Clare’s Law applications can still be made via the official 1 Police website.
Anyone in immediate danger is urged to dial 999 without delay.
