The ‘Sharon Harman: Prevention of Future Deaths Report, highlights a gap in police powers to protect, using police bail.
The coroner’s report details how after the suspect was bailed on ABH charges with the condition not to return home-his key had been returned at his release which ultimately led to the murder of Sharon Harman.
The report highlights a gap between guidance and the laws provided to police officers under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.
This report recommends a review of current legislation and guidance to ensure consistency and that police officers have the necessary powers to protect victims of domestic violence.
“There appears an obvious disconnect in the guidance issued by the College of Policing and the laws provided to police under s19 PACE or otherwise. This appears of particular concern in cases of domestic violence where, previously, the parties have lived together.
The police officers who gave evidence at inquest were of one voice that an additional power to retain a house key – for the duration of imposed bail conditions only – would be an additional and helpful power to have.“
Sharon Harmon: Prevention of Future Deaths Report
Read the report in full here