Justice Minister Long stresses family involvement in the review of Jonathan Creswell’s case after Katie Simpson’s death in Co Derry.
Police first thought Katie took her own life. Creswell was Katie’s sister’s partner. He was arrested for murder the following year. Creswell had assaulted a partner previously in 2009 and was jailed.
Creswell lacked a risk management plan when Katie died. Justice Minister Naomi Long is commissioning a review. It will check if chances to refer Creswell to PPANI were missed.
The review’s terms are drafted. Authorities received them, including the police chief, the Probation Board, and the Western Trust. An independent reviewer is lined up. Minister Long said Katie’s family is key to the review.
Long addressed the review on Monday and committed to it on January 13. Understanding victim safety and offender handling is vital. She wants a quick review start, and her department drafted the review’s terms.
She contacted key figures including the Chief Constable, Probation Board head, and the Western Health and Social Care Trust’s leader. She sought their comments and participation. The Prison Service will also get involved. Long is considering the feedback so far.
Her department found a reviewer, and she is confident in their sensitive, comprehensive approach. Long will share final terms and reviewer details soon. She will write to the Justice Committee.
Mark Durkan thanked the Minister for the review of this tragic case. He mentioned its awful initial handling. He asked if the review would include those most hurt, including Katie’s relatives and other affected people.
Long emphasized engaging with the family. They participated in defining the review’s scope and plan. Katie’s family must be at the heart because they feel unanswered questions remain. The reviewer should engage with Katie’s family first.
