Oh what a wicked web we weave when first we practice to deceive

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24 May 2007

IPCC update into complaints against Wiltshire Police in Joshua Taylor case

The IPCC is midway through its managed investigation into a complaint against Wiltshire Police about its investigation into the death of baby Joshua Taylor, whose mother, Marianne Williams, was acquitted in court of his murder.

Joshua's grandmother complained to Wiltshire Police about the searches undertaken by police officers at the home of Marianne Williams and her partner. She also complained about the treatment Joshua received in hospital and the actions of the doctor treating his case.

IPCC commissioner Ian Bynoe said: "Wiltshire Police voluntarily referred the complaint to the IPCC on 12 November 2006. I decided that the IPCC would manage an investigation into the actions of the police officers when they searched Ms William's home.

"Wiltshire Police are carrying out this investigation under our direction and control and are themselves investigating the complaints made against the doctor. The IPCC has no jurisdiction over the medical aspects of the case.

"Six police officers have been served with a Regulation 9 notice informing them of the complaint, which is a requirement under Police regulations. This in no way implies guilt or wrong doing on the part of any officer."
In dealing with the medical aspect of the complaint Wiltshire Police are seeking an expert witness from outside Britain, following objections from the complainant to experts who were involved to some extent in the original investigation. The inquiry is therefore seeking a wholly independent medical opinion from outside the country.

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