‘Institutional misogyny’ blamed for warning signs missed in Simpson investigation

By Rebecca Black, Press Association

A review has found that “institutional misogyny” contributed to “clear warnings signs” being missed following the death of showjumper Katie Simpson.

The independent review led by Dr Jan Melia, commissioned by the Department of Justice, found that “not one officer thought seriously about abuse/control” in the initial police investigation in 2020.

It cited “systematic failures” and also criticised other bodies including social services and the health service over safeguarding, as well as within the equestrian sector.

It has made 16 recommendations, with many focused on training.

The 21-year-old from Tynan, Co Armagh, died in Altnagelvin Area Hospital almost a week after an incident in Gortnessy Meadows, Lettershandoney.

Police originally thought she had taken her own life.

It was not until the following year that Jonathan Creswell, the partner of Ms Simpson’s sister, was arrested on suspicion of murder.

The trial of Creswell, 36, for the murder of Ms Simpson ended in April 2024 after he took his own life following the first day of proceedings.

The report found that 37 people, both female and male, have come forward to say they were abused by Creswell.

It found officers failed to identify inconsistencies in Creswell’s account, neglected to preserve vital evidence, overlooked forensic scenes and opportunities, dismissed key witness statements and failed to secure/examine crucial digital communications such as text messages and phone records that might have revealed patterns of abuse.

It went on to find that police officers demonstrated a striking lack of professional curiosity, failed to employ an investigative mindset or consider the possibility of abuse/control, in spite of clear warning signs.

In a foreword to the review’s report, Ms Simpson’s mother said it had been “hard to read”, noting “so many things were missed, not done properly and it felt like there was a “lack of care for Katie from the police”.

Making an oral statement in the Assembly, Justice Minister Naomi Long said a “debit of gratitude” was owed to all who raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding the death of Ms Simpson.

She said the independent review “makes for uncomfortable reading” and announced that Dr Melia will co-ordinate and chair an implementation group for the 16 recommendations.

“My department and our partners will act on the recommendations contained in Dr Melia’s report and ensure lessons are not simply learned but embedded,” she told MLAs.

The Katie Trust, set up in Ms Simpson’s memory, welcomed the review as representing a “significant and necessary step toward transparency and accountability”.