PC Khunkhun Faces Gross Misconduct Over Botched Domestic Abuse Probe
PC Sandeep Khunkhun, part of the North West Command Unit, has been found guilty of gross misconduct following a bungled investigation into domestic abuse allegations. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched the probe after a referral from the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards.
Horrific Murder Sparks Scrutiny
On 16 April 2020, Denise Keane-Simmons, 44, died after her husband Damion Simmons set fire to the flat where she was staying. Simmons was convicted of her murder and sentenced to life with a minimum of 32 years behind bars.
In the months leading up to Denise’s death, she and others made several complaints against Simmons. PC Khunkhun was responsible for investigating these serious allegations, including harassment and voyeurism.
Investigation Criticised for Negligence
Despite her role, PC Khunkhun failed to arrest Simmons or properly interview him, cancelling appointments three times. She ignored multiple requests from supervisors to update the crime report or follow an action plan. The investigations were abruptly closed after she claimed Denise withdrew support, dismissing the case as having no victim.
Chief Superintendent Sara Leach said: “The investigation carried out by PC Khunkhun was clearly below the standard we expect. Our thoughts are with Ms Keane-Simmons’ family who have suffered an unimaginable loss.”
“Tackling violence against women and girls is one of our top priorities. We want victims to feel confident coming forward, but cases like this damage public trust.”
New Training and Tough Consequences
As part of a fresh Violence Against Women and Girls Action Plan, over 8,000 frontline officers are now receiving specialist domestic abuse training to boost their response and awareness of coercive control.
PC Khunkhun will be added to the College of Policing’s Barred List, banning her from future policing or related roles within oversight bodies. The police are determined to restore confidence after this catastrophic failure.
The Brutal Truth Behind the Case
Simmons, 45, was found guilty at the Old Bailey for the murder of 36-year-old Denise Keane-Barnett, who died from horrific burns sustained in the fire. Prosecutor Olcay Sapanoglu described the crime as “a jealous campaign of torment and abuse” culminating in a horrendous murder because Simmons “could not accept that their relationship was over.”
