BBC Radio 4 LW

Face the Facts

Factual: Consumer

Original investigations into social injustice, public policy, inefficiency and fraud

Face the Facts: Fatal Inaction

Fatal Inaction

19/08/2010

BBC Radio 4 - Face the Facts, Fatal Inaction

When domestic violence leads to murder, why do police keep missing the danger signs?

When a convicted murderer threatens to kill his ex-girlfriend, why do police ignore her cries for help? John Waite investigates domestic murder and failure by the police to act.

A convicted murderer, threats to kill and numerous reports of stalking and harrassment. They're all factors the police need to take into account when a victim of domestic abuse calls for help. Too often, though, police are failing to spot the warning signs until it's too late. This, despite repeated concerns voiced by its own watchdog, the Independent Police Complaints Commission and detailed guidelines and procedures on how officers should investigate domestic abuse. Every week, two women in the UK are killed by a violent partner or ex-partner. So it's crucial police can identify who is most at risk of harm and respond appropriately. John Waite investigates the cases where police officers breached their own guidelines and failed those whom they needed to protect.

BBC Radio 4

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Face the Facts

Fatal Inaction

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4