Police Boss Found Dead After Harrowing Internal Probe – Wife Blames ‘Procedural Failures’
Devon Police Supervisor’s Tragic End
Michael Newton, 38, a respected Devon and Cornwall Police control room supervisor, was found dead in Kingskerswell woodland on March 25, 2022. His wife, Emma Newton, claims botched police procedures during his internal investigation played a role in his untimely death.
From Hero to Suspension
Michael, known as a “loveable, larger-than-life character,” had a sterling reputation and multiple awards. But everything changed when he was suspended on December 26, 2021, after allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct at work emerged. The shock? He wasn’t told the details until a March 10 interview, where he was accused of sexual relations with nine colleagues – claims Emma says stemmed from a “drunken comment” during a night out.
Investigation Delays and Isolation
Following suspension, Michael became withdrawn and anxious. Emma told the inquest: “He talked about feeling incredibly lonely and isolated. He feared his reputation would be ruined even though he had no case to answer.”
She highlighted major failings:
- A 36-day delay in appointing an investigation manager.
- Zero updates on his suspension review.
- No effort to consider alternative work options, like remote duties.
Final Hours and Heartbreaking Plea
The couple even discussed taking time apart the night before Michael died. Emma reassured him the separation wasn’t permanent. But on March 25, a neighbour spotted police near Michael’s car. Minutes later, she was told he had died by ligature suspension.
Emma slammed the police handling: “Mike was completely failed. Policies were ignored. If he’d been treated with fairness and compassion, he’d still be here.”
Police Speak Out
Chief Inspector Sarah Johns, who served the suspension, defended the decision as necessary to protect the probe’s integrity. “Working from home was ruled out to avoid contact with involved colleagues,” she explained.
She admitted she should have been clearer about who Michael could talk to during the investigation. “I now realise I should have put these instructions in writing,” she said.
Wife Demands Justice and Support
Emma revealed Michael was cut off from his colleagues and support network, only allowed to receive welfare messages via an officer. She said this isolation deepened his distress. “Had he been treated fairly and with compassion, this tragedy could have been avoided.”
Inquest Still Underway
The inquest continues, probing how internal investigations are conducted and their toll on staff mental health. It raises urgent questions about the police’s duty of care when allegations fly.
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