Durham Police and Crime Commissioner, Joy Allen said: “Sarah was victim to the most horrific crime and she was murdered by brutal male violence.
“It is deeply disturbing how a Metropolitan Police Officer abused his trust that enabled him to commit his grotesque crimes and I wholly understand how concerning this is for women and girls. I know his betrayal of authority is most shocking and devastating to police officers who serve to protect the public.
“The impact statement from Sarah’s mother is truly heart-breaking and no mother should have to endure the pain she is suffering.
“A whole life sentence is appropriate but sadly will not bring Sarah back. Being protected from violence and exploitation is a basic human right and I am committed to doing everything in my power to help ensure these rights aren’t breached so that women and girls feel safe and confident both outside and in their own homes.
“An effective response requires a concerted effort by many different partners implementing comprehensive and co-ordinated policies and strategies at local, regional, and national level. It is only by supporting strong multi-agency partnerships that we can begin to make our streets safer, strengthen pathways to justice, hold perpetrators to account and make sure our actions are ethical and effective by putting victim and survivor experiences at the heart of our policies.”
PCC Joy Allen today hailed the success of a winter crackdown that has driven unprecedented action against the crimes that harm communities most.
PCC Joy Allen explains, in her own words, why the police precept set for 2026/2027 will deliver exactly what residents have asked for.
PCC Joy Allen has praised community groups for their hard work encouraging young people to transform their lives.
