Review Finds PSNI Missed Abuse Warning Signs in Katie Simpson Death, Says Institutional Misogyny

A review commissioned by the Department of Justice in Northern Ireland found that “institutional misogyny” contributed to “clear warning signs” being missed in the initial police investigation into the death of Katie Simpson. The review, led by Dr Jan Melia, said “not one officer thought seriously about abuse/control” in the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) investigation in 2020. Simpson, a 21-year-old showjumper from Co Armagh, died in hospital almost a week after being admitted, after police initially treated her death as a suicide. Jonathan Creswell, the partner of Ms Simpson’s sister, was arrested on suspicion of murder seven months later, and he took his own life following the first day of proceedings at his trial in April 2024.

“- Published Confidence in policing has been shaken "to its very foundations" over the handling of Katie Simpson's murder, Stormont's justice committee chairman has said”

BBC

Stormont’s justice committee chairman Paul Frew said the review made for “horrific reading,” telling Good Morning Ulster, “It is absolutely astounding.” Nuala Lappin, a retired specialist PSNI domestic abuse officer, described Creswell as “the absolute Jekyll and Hyde character” who was “full of narcissism” and “so cocky.” The BBC reported that external voices also pressed for structural change, including Abi Lyle’s call for an environment where victims felt they could come forward, after the review found 37 other victims later alleged abuse by Creswell. Justice Minister Naomi Long told BBC News NI that “earlier intervention across the board could have prevented much of the harm Katie suffered,” while also warning that misogyny within policing increases risk to women.

The review concluded that police handling of Katie Simpson’s death reflected “systemic failures” and faulted other bodies including social services and the health service, as well as safeguarding within the equestrian sector. It said the PSNI investigation was “a profound failure,” characterised by missed red flags, weak leadership, weak decision making and a culture of misogyny and complacency that marginalised Katie Simpson. The Irish Legal News reported that the 200-page report disclosed 37 further victims, including a nine-year-old girl, who came forward alleging abuse by Jonathan Creswell. The review also made 16 recommendations, with many focused on training, and it said “Her death and investigation that followed must serve as a catalyst for reform.”

“Review identifies ‘unacceptable failings’ in police investigation into death of Katie Simpson A review of the investigation into the death of showjumper Katie Simpson has found “unacceptable failings” by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the wider criminal justice system”

Police Professional