Police chief offers personal apology to Hungerford over failed prosecution
THE chief constable of Thames Valley Police has personally apologised to the people of Hungerford over a catastrophic blunder.
Last December a motorist crashed into Snippit’s Barbers at 59 High Street, causing immense structural damage and resulting in an ongoing traffic light system reportedly costing £9,000 per month.
Doorbell camera footage clearly shows the shocking incident but, following Newbury Weekly News enquiries, police admitted the case had been quietly closed with no further action to be taken.
Following the NWN investigation, town mayor Helen Simpson said in a statement: “I am appalled a conviction has not been made, despite clear video footage evidencing what took place.
“The accident has resulted in West Berkshire Council paying traffic management costs of £100,000 for a year of traffic lights.
“I sent a written complaint to Thames Valley Police to express the town’s outrage that the case had been closed with no further action.”
Chief constable Jason Hogg replied: “Following a review of the case by our Roads Policing Department it has been established that the officer in the case (OIC) did not pursue the investigation in a timely manner and failed to complete his enquiries within the six month statutory time limit.
“This is, of course, wholly unacceptable and gives a poor reflection on the Roads Policing Department who have offered an apology on behalf of his department for this poor level of service.
“The officer in the case will be subject of reflective practice which is used where mistakes have been made and there are opportunities for officers to reflect and learn.
“The officer’s supervisor will also be subject of reflective practice for failing to be diligent in his supervisory reviews of the case.
“A formal record will be made on their personal development record to reflect this intervention.”
He added: “Whilst I accept this is far from satisfactory for yourself or the residents of Hungerford, I hope it goes some way to providing you with an explanation as to why no prosecution was brought and reassurance that action has been taken to address the failures of those involved.”
Mrs Simpson concluded: “Thank you, Thames Valley Police, for the formal response.
“Although it explains the failings on this case, it doesn’t make it any easier to accept.
“I feel sorry for the officer who’s made the mistake – I’m sure their workload was extremely heavy.
“The outcome is unacceptable.
“Hungerford residents have been extremely let down by Thames Valley Police on this occasion.”