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 has been recognised nationally for the high quality of her Independent Custody Visiting (ICV) scheme.
PCC Joy Allen explains why tackling ASB needs prevention, enforcement, strong partnerships and community reporting for safer neighbourhoods
A high-profile campaign is being relaunched to empower rural communities to stand up to ASB and get the support they need
