Keyham shootings: Watchdog to investigate Devon & Cornwall Police
A criminal investigation has been launched into the firearms licensing unit
Last updated 14th Sep 2022
Police watchdog, the IOPC, has begun a criminal investigation into Devon & Cornwall Police in connection with last year's fatal shootings in Plymouth.
It is looking into the running of its firearms licensing unit after the gunman, Jake Davison, initially had his shotgun taken away but then returned to him before the shootings took place.
In a statement, the IOPC said: "At the conclusion of our investigation into the force's granting of a shotgun certificate and later return to Jake Davison of a shotgun, we sought specialist legal advice and have since decided to conduct a criminal investigation.
“Our investigation will examine whether the Office of the Chief Constable of Devon & Cornwall Police, as corporation sole, may have committed any offences contrary to the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
"We have advised the force, the Police and Crime Commissioner, the Coroner and families of our decision".
Statement from Devon & Cornwall Police
Assistant Chief Constable Jim Nye said: "Devon & Cornwall Police's thoughts remain with those families, victims and survivors a year on from the events of August 2021 in Keyham.
"Throughout the last year the force has co-operated fully with the IOPC investigation, the coronial process and commissioned an independent review of the force's firearms licensing procedures by Durham Constabulary.
"We are aware of the latest developments from the IOPC investigation and continue to co-operate fully with them, while considering next steps the force may choose to take on this matter.
"The force notes this development is in its early stages and no determination in terms of potential corporate culpability has been decided.
"We continue to respect the coronial process in preparation for a full inquest in January 2023".