Two cops slammed for botching case of teen stabbed to death by ex
Two officers have been slammed for their bungled handling of a teenage girl who later died after a violent attack. PC Kerry Lynham and PC Sophie Dennis, both from South East command unit, faced a gross incompetence hearing over their failings with 17-year-old Katrina Makunova.
Teen’s death linked to police blunders
Katrina died on 12 July 2018 in Southwark after falling on a knife during a struggle with her ex, Oluwaseyi Dada. The 21-year-old was later convicted of manslaughter and jailed.
Before her tragic death, Katrina had reported harassment and threats from Dada. But the two officers allegedly failed to treat her case seriously when they visited her home on 23 June 2018.
Officers ignored warning signs
- PCs Lynham and Dennis did not complete crucial forms or risk assessments needed to protect a vulnerable domestic abuse victim.
- PC Lynham failed to submit a Merlin report, a vital child safeguarding tool.
- PC Dennis was accused of submitting false information, claiming paperwork was done and that Katrina refused to answer risk questions or give a statement—both untrue.
The officers did refer Katrina to a local domestic abuse charity and suggested a restraining order, but their paperwork and follow-up were severely lacking.
Damning verdict and punishment
The hearing, chaired by Commander Alison Heydari, delivered stark findings on 9 September. PC Dennis was found grossly incompetent and handed a final written improvement notice. PC Lynham received a written improvement notice for unsatisfactory performance, though some allegations against her were not proven.
Deputy Commissioner Sir Stephen House said: “We expect all our officers to take allegations of domestic abuse extremely seriously and follow proper procedures to safeguard victims. We join policing to protect people like Miss Makunova and I am deeply ashamed that these officers failed her. My thoughts are with Miss Makunova’s family and friends.”
Wider police failings exposed
An Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation uncovered failings by 10 other officers involved with Katrina’s case. Issues ranged from investigating her complaints to child safeguarding and supervision of colleagues.
The tragic case highlights serious failings in police response to domestic abuse, with fatal consequences.
