Police face action over death of stalked woman

Police officers are facing disciplinary action following the death of a woman who was being stalked.

Shana Grice was 19 and reported being stalked by her ex boyfriend. She was fined for wasting police time after reporting him 5 times.

Michael Lane, her ex boyfriend, went on to murder her.

Sussex Police say two officers are facing gross misconduct charges. A third officer is facing internal action.

Shana lived in Portslade, near Brighton.

Michael Lane fitted a tracker to her car and stole a house key to gain entry to her room as she was sleeping.

He murdered her and was given a life sentence.

It was discovered that 13 other women had reported him to police for stalking them.

Two women a week are murdered by their partner or ex partner^[1][1].

Domestic abuse doesn’t always occur during a relationship. And it doesn’t always stop when you find the courage to leave a relationship.

Police across the country need more training in the areas of domestic abuse and stalking and harassment.

Samantha Lee, head of Family Law at Swain & Co Solicitors explains,

“Sometimes domestic abuse perpetrators continue their abuse after you find the courage to leave. It is essential that if you are a victim of domestic abuse that you seek support. There are many agencies that can help and there are also legal options available to you. We can help protect you with court orders.”

“Go to the Police and report your partner or ex partner’s behaviour. Police are investing in training around domestic abuse.”

Don’t suffer in silence. Speak out.

We can offer free initial advice to discuss options. No obligation, no pressure – just support at your pace.

Call us on 02392 483322 or fill in our enquiry form and we will contact you back.

^[2][1] Office for National Statistics (2016) https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/compendium/focusonviolentcrimeandsexualoffences/yearendingmarch2015/chapter2homicide