Two Suffolk Cops Face Gross Incompetence Hearings Over Taiwo Abodunde’s Death
Two Suffolk Constabulary officers are under fire and set to face gross incompetence hearings after botching their response to a domestic incident that ended in the tragic death of Taiwo Abodunde in Newmarket on 28 November 2023.
How It All Unfolded: The Deadly Timeline
- 27 November 2023: Two officers, including a probationer, responded to a domestic disturbance at Taiwo and Olobunmi Abodunde’s home.
- Olobunmi was arrested for common assault and assault causing actual bodily harm but was bailed later that day.
- 28 November 2023: The same officers returned to take a statement from Taiwo but made no contact with her initially.
- They heard a disturbance inside the house and after a 35-minute delay and consulting their acting sergeant, finally entered—only to find Taiwo dead.
- Olobunmi was arrested on suspicion of murder and later sentenced to life in prison in May 2024 after admitting the killing.
Investigation Uncovers Serious Failings
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched a probe following a mandatory referral from Suffolk Constabulary. Their investigation revealed alarming missteps by two officers:
Police Constable Charged With Gross Incompetence
- Failed to properly handle the initial domestic incident on 27 November.
- Delayed entering the property on 28 November despite clear signs Taiwo was in danger.
Acting Sergeant Also Under Fire
- Advised officers against entering the home, ignoring risks to Taiwo’s safety.
- Neglected supervisory duties following Olobunmi’s arrest and release, potentially putting Taiwo at further risk.
Probationary Officer Cleared, But Has Resigned
- Probationary constable involved faced no disciplinary action.
- The officer has since resigned during the course of the investigation.
IOPC Director Speaks Out
“Our deepest sympathies remain with the family and friends of Taiwo Abodunde and anyone affected by her tragic and senseless murder.
As a result of our investigation, we have determined that two Suffolk officers should face gross incompetence hearings for their actions leading up to her death.”
Emily Barry stressed the hearing panel, not the IOPC, will decide the officers’ fate:
“It is not our role to decide if the officers’ actions amount to gross incompetence. That responsibility lies with a police performance panel, which will review the evidence and make that determination.”
What’s a Gross Incompetence Hearing?
A gross incompetence hearing is held when police fail so badly in their duties that dismissal from the force is on the table. Senior officials sift through evidence and testimonies to rule on the matter.
Next Steps & The Bigger Picture
- Suffolk Constabulary has been notified and will organise the hearings.
- Taiwo Abodunde’s family has been informed of the investigation’s findings.
This case has sparked fresh debate over police handling of domestic violence calls and whether frontline officers get proper training to manage high-risk domestic abuse situations.
The IOPC’s move aims to enforce accountability and highlight the critical need to protect vulnerable victims in domestic disputes.
